Geographical Information Systems is designed to give a sound introduction to GIS for students with little or no knowledge of the subject. Using real world examples, this text provides a concise introduction to the theory and practice of GIS. Interviews are included throughout the text with people using GIS beyond academia. These interviewees provide succint opinions of the complexities of the field and comment on the real-world issues. This is designed to get students interested in the theory by showing them the real-world applications. In a field which is typically heavy in the use of software specific labels and terminology, the simplicity of this text is designed for the applied GIS user rather than the technical, computing science population. The text is ideal for students new to GIS and does not assume prior knowledge. The book is structured to provide a cumulative learning experience and gradually leads the student through the subject matter. There is a strong pedagogical focus with new examples with new GIS application and Australian stories and interviews included to add insight into the modern GIS direction.

Table of Contents

1. The Gist of GIS; SECTION 1; 2. Data; 3. Data Input; 4. Data Ending; 5. The G in GIS; 6. Data Input; 7. Data Management; SECTION 2; 8. Elementary GIS tools; 9. Vector Geoprocessing Tools; 10. Raster Geoprocessing Tools; 11. Proximity and Network Analysis; 12. Surface Analyses; 13. Spatial Modelling; 14. Error Evaluation and Tracking; 15. Spatial Direction

Reviews

"In this new edition, Delaney and Van Niel present the functions of geographic information systems (GIS) with emphasis on concepts, principles, and operations rather than software. The writing is crisp and precise, carefully metering the jargon common in software-specific training manuals....An excellent book for nontechnical GIS managers or for senior members of an organization that uses GIS as a teaching, research, or decision-support tool....Highly recommended."--CHOICE
"In summary, this is an excellent starting point for anyone who is starting to use GIS, and a valuable resource for anyone teaching courses on the subject. Even for those who aren't using GIS directly, it is a quick read that provides valuable background on the field to help understand the problems faced by GIS operators."--The Leading Edge