Introductory Readings In Geographic Information Systems

Even though Geographic Information Systems GIS have been available for over 20 years, they have only recently become accessible to geographers and others as a useful tool in spacial analysis. This book assembles a balanced sample of written works covering important aspects of the basic principles of GIS and selected examples of applications.

Geospatial technologies in general - and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in particular - are becoming increasingly important in our society. GIS technology is used to identify the optimal routes for emergency vehicles, to determine the best locations for various businesses, schools, and facilities, to monitor the growth and expansion of urban areas as a way to manage natural resources, and much more. Principles of Geographic Information Systems by John Jensen and Ryan Jensen is an ideal introduction for those who know very little about geographic information systems and spatial analysis. Relatively complex GIS principles are introduced in basic terms, often using graphics to communicate principles rather than complex mathematical equations. Content is not geared toward any single commercial GIS software program, and the book's timely, practical examples and extensive visual format appeal to today's students. This text can be used at the undergraduate or graduate level in one or two semester courses in Introductory and Intermediate GIS, yet can also be useful for professionals looking to increase their knowledge in this subject area. Note: If you are purchasing the standalone text or electronic version, mygeoscienceplace does not come automatically packaged with the text. To purchase mygeoscienceplace, please visit www.mygeoscienceplace.com.

Background and history; the essential elements of a GIS; an overview; data structures; data acquisition; preprocessing; data management; manipulatioin and analysis; product generation; remote sensing and GIS; practical matters; applications; looking toward the future.

Features a five part structure covering: Foundations; Principles; Techniques; Analysis; and Management and Policy. This book includes chapters on Distributed GIS, Map Production, Geovisualization, Modeling, and Managing GIS. It offers coverage of such topics as: GIS and the New World Order; security, health and well being; and the greening of GIS.