Lab 4

        There are numerous advantages in using GIS for work involving maps, since GIS is a dynamic system that has significant potential in creating accurate displays of maps accompanied by useful peripheral information. A major advantage of GIS lies in its ability to simultaneously display a whole range of information. For example, in referencing the product of the tutorial above, it is easy to notice that there is a lot of information contained within a concise graphic. Through GIS it is possible, in this case, to see details ranging from population density of the region all the way to how the area will be affected by the expansion of the airport in regards to noise and traffic. GIS is able to achieve this by enabling the user to incorporate multiple data frames and corresponding graphs within a single graphic, as is true in this particular example regarding the "Proposed Airport Expansion" display. For example, the first data frame is aimed at showing how schools in the area will be affected by the noise of the expanding airport. The data frame below that shows the different type of land uses in the area and integrates that information with the noise contour. There is also a graph that then details the type of each land use within the noise contour, and finally there is a data frame at the bottom that displays the population densities of the region. Therefore, it can be seen that one prowess of GIS lies in its ability to break down a problem into its component parts, so that the matter can be more easily analyzed. Through GIS the user is able to look at the multiple aspects of the problem and address each one individually.

        Another prowess of GIS lies in its use of hardware and software. GIS is revolutionary in this regard, since it dramatically reduces the time it takes to make a display incorporating information as well as the time it takes to perform analysis. Conventional map making is restricted to the ability of the map maker to accurately render information as well as the the accuracy of the tools the map maker uses. It is a slow process to manually accumulate all of the information on a paper map and arrive at a finished product. GIS can accumulate all of this information in moments and display it with far more accuracy than can be achieved with using tools, such as rulers, protractors, and pencils. Additionally, GIS can integrate multiple layers of information within a data frame that can be turned on and off in a matter of seconds. For example, in the first data frame the air port expansion zone, arterials, noise contour, and schools, to name a few components, can be turned on and off with the click of a button. This allows for simplification of the map if less detail and clutter is desired. Obviously, this is a feature that is not present on conventional paper maps. Therefore, spatial analysis is easier on GIS. Additionally, GIS allows for the user to access the data alone, whereas a paper map does not have this advantage. For example, tables can be opened within ArcGIS that give access to numerical data directly. These tables were even viewed during the tutorial.

        There are, however, some downfalls that exist in relation to GIS. GIS requires a significant amount of technical knowledge. User friendliness is limited in that the user must have a decent amount of prior computer related knowledge in order to be able to navigate through all the different menus and components of ArcGIS. It is also necessary for the user to have general computer "know-how," without even beginning to consider the knowledge and experience required to successfully use ArcGIS. Consequently, it would be difficult for any amateur to produce a respectable product. Therefore, it is necessary for beginners to have access to some sort of tutorial that familiarizes them with the system. Even with the help of a tutorial, though, it does not become altogether obvious how to go about making a map and visual presentation of your own afterwrads, especially since there are so many different commands and directions to remember. In order to become an expert in using GIS a lot of devoted time and practice is required. It may, therefore, be a while before a beginner can successfully create a successful product.

         Another problem with GIS is the expense associated with obtaining the software. Even though there are free services available, the more advanced features can only be obtained in most cases by purchasing a professional version of GIS software. In some cases users may also need new and more expensive hardware as well, since their current hardware may not meet the requirements to run a demanding GIS program. This restricts the number and type of consumers that can purchase the product. In most cases a single user who wants to purchase ArcGIS for private and individual use may be unable follow through with the decision, because the software can cost up to thousands of dollars. Even small businesses that wish to acquire the software may have difficulty in purchasing it, because of its price. Therefore, the use of GIS software is likely to be limited to mostly larger organizations that can afford the service, until there are decreases in the price. These problems are, however, minor in comparison to the advantages that GIS provides and may even be solved as GIS evolves through the years to come.