Presentation Title
The Development of Geographic Information Systems and its Applications in Urban Studies
Location
IB 1020
Start Date
19-3-2016 10:00 AM
End Date
19-3-2016 10:15 AM
Abstract
The use of geographic information systems, or GIS, has continually proved valuable throughout its development as a geographic tool in urban studies. The list of ways in which GIS can be applied in urban studies is extensive and continues to grow with increasing advancements in the technology. A GIS is a computer system designed to facilitate the gathering, storing, manipulation, analysis, and visualisation of geographic data. Among many of its other applications, GIS is used in urban geography and planning to track and monitor land values, demographics, weather, and pollution; to facilitate street design and urban layout, geologic and environmental surveys, and optimal site identification; and to manage transport, transit, water, and utility systems. With a focus on urban studies, this presentation reviews existing literature as a means to study GIS and its evolution in the computer and data-sharing age, while highlighting future developments in GIS and its applications in urban studies. In order to illustrate the full potential of GIS in urban studies, Berlin’s 3D Model and Calgary’s Heat Map Model are included in the review as case studies. As GIS continues to be a valuable tool in urban studies, geographers and urban planners will have the increasing capability to develop more efficient and sustainable cities in the future.
Faculty Advisor
Gilles Viaud
The Development of Geographic Information Systems and its Applications in Urban Studies
IB 1020
The use of geographic information systems, or GIS, has continually proved valuable throughout its development as a geographic tool in urban studies. The list of ways in which GIS can be applied in urban studies is extensive and continues to grow with increasing advancements in the technology. A GIS is a computer system designed to facilitate the gathering, storing, manipulation, analysis, and visualisation of geographic data. Among many of its other applications, GIS is used in urban geography and planning to track and monitor land values, demographics, weather, and pollution; to facilitate street design and urban layout, geologic and environmental surveys, and optimal site identification; and to manage transport, transit, water, and utility systems. With a focus on urban studies, this presentation reviews existing literature as a means to study GIS and its evolution in the computer and data-sharing age, while highlighting future developments in GIS and its applications in urban studies. In order to illustrate the full potential of GIS in urban studies, Berlin’s 3D Model and Calgary’s Heat Map Model are included in the review as case studies. As GIS continues to be a valuable tool in urban studies, geographers and urban planners will have the increasing capability to develop more efficient and sustainable cities in the future.