GIS and DSS

What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System.
It is a computer based tool for storing, mapping, analyzing and displaying data related to positions on Earth's surface.
It allows multiple layers of information to be displayed on a single map.
It can show different kinds of data on one map.
This system enables people see, analyze and understand patterns & relationships more easily.
It integrates common database operations, such as query and statistical analysis.
It contains an explicit geographic reference, such as latitude, longitude, address or zip code and can be used for any information that includes location.
It integrates five key components - hardware, software, data, people and methods.

GIS performs geographic queries and analysis.
It reduces land acquisition and fleet maintenance costs through better analysis and logistics.
It analyzes data quickly.
It improves organizational integration.
GIS is not an automated decision making system but it makes better decision about the location.
GIS is the process of making maps where people can compare the locations of different things to discover how they are related to each other.
It is more flexible than automated cartography.
It allows you to bring all types of data together based on the geographic and locational component of the data.

DSS stands for Decision Support System.
It is a computer program application that supports business and organizational decision-making activities.
It is an interactive software – based system.
It helps user to make decisions based on the data obtained from a wide range of sources.
It helps decision makers to compile useful information from raw data, documents, personal knowledge and business models to identify and solve problems & make decisions.
It is used in many fields such as medical diagnosis, credit loan verification, agricultural production, policy levels, forest management, etc.
It gathers and presents the data from a wide range of sources, used for business purposes.