A geographic information system provides the means to organize, analyze, and display spatial information, data that are associated with specific geographic locations. GIS technology integrates database operations such as query and statistical analysis with geographic analysis, modeling, and display capabilities.

GIS analyses range from simple queries of what is where, to sophisticated models used for basic research, management, and planning. GIS can couple fundamental scientific and social process models. Results can be displayed as maps or images with overlays of diverse kinds of information. GIS technology is rapidly changing and proving valuable to address diverse problems in virtually every discipline.