GIS, or geographic information systems, have become an essential tool in our modern world. They are computer-based systems that allow us to store, visualize, analyze and interpret geographic data. From mapping out roads and topography to tracking weather patterns and understanding wildlife movement, GIS has a wide range of applications that make it a critical component of our everyday lives.

GIS has also found its way into various scientific applications and industries. Epidemiologists use it to map the spread of disease while ecologists use it to understand wildlife movement. Climate scientists rely on it to comprehend changes in glaciers, sea levels, and regional weather patterns. Additionally, social scientists use GIS to study global conflict and immigration while urban planners and engineers use it to determine the best places for new development and infrastructure.

The U.S. National Science Foundation has played a significant role in the development and growth of GIS-related technology and science. Over the past two years, the foundation has awarded about 180 grants totaling more than $83 million to support research related to GIS in fields such as geography, math, computer science, geology, anthropology, and education. This continued support demonstrates the importance of GIS in our modern world and its ongoing relevance to a wide range of fields.

In conclusion, spatial data is essential in our modern-day conveniences from checking news or weather on our smartphones to utilizing industry systems that ensure products reach their destinations. Geographic information systems (GIS) are computer-based tools used to organize this data by storing layers of information about roads