Introduction to GIS

ArcGIS: Benefits and Drawbacks

GIS is an important tool that allows individuals to pose, answer and articulate questions regarding a variety of topics. This unique tool presents data information in a geographical model. Consequently, it allows one to preview the past, visualize the present, or predict the future. Despite such benefits, the program itself has pitfalls. Overall, GIS is a program with many benefits and difficulties.

To begin with, the program’s ability to present and integrate information is very beneficial. In the exercise, I was able to present noise information alongside school information. Such integration can help make information on how to develop the area. More generally, by allowing individuals to incorporate different information, the program can help make informed decisions. Furthermore, the program’s use of different layers allows individuals to have complete control on what types of information to portray. This control is necessary on any project one may undertake. Additionally, controlling the coloring scheme is another valuable tool. In presenting the population density, one can clearly, quickly and efficiently understand the figure. Lastly, the program can analyze data that is input. One example is the graph created using the program. In general, the program is very successful in allowing the user to control all aspects of his or her presentation.

On the contrary, the program is very difficult to use and master. One must remember that for all its controllability, the program must embed options for them. Consequently, one can easily become frustrated and lost while using the program. Despite my computing skills being above average, I did run into a couple small problems. One problem was managing all the layers. Many times I found myself working on the wrong layer and adjusting changes. Thus, the benefit of having layers can also lead to some difficulties in managing them. For a technologically inept individual, it is very easy to see how such a program may cause confusion. In comparison to programs used for neogeography, ArcGIS is not as user-friendly. GIS is a tool to be used by trained experts rather than ordinary users. Thus, the drawback of such a useful tool is the interface that new-users may find confusing.

As one can see, GIS is a high technical visualization tool that can be used for numerous purposes. Its biggest benefit is its flexibility in types of tools and analysis. The amount of information that can be efficiently stored, controlled and presented makes it very helpful. However, its flexibility is also a draw back as users can quickly get lost in a multitude of buttons. Thus, GIS is a tool that takes time and practice to master.