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GISs are closely related to several other types of information systems, but it is the ability to manipulate and analyze geographic data that sets GIS technology apart. Although there are no hard and fast rules about how to classify information systems, the following discussion should help differentiate GIS from desktop mapping, computer-aided design (CAD), remote sensing, DBMS, and global positioning systems (GPS) technologies.
Desktop Mapping
A desktop mapping system uses the map metaphor to organize data and user
interaction. The focus of such systems is the creation of maps: the map is the
database. Most desktop mapping systems have more limited data management,
spatial analysis, and customization capabilities. Desktop mapping systems
operate on desktop computers such as PCs, Macintoshes, and smaller UNIX
workstations.
CAD
CAD systems evolved to create designs and plans of buildings and infrastructure.
This activity required that components of fixed characteristics be assembled to
create the whole structure. These systems require few rules to specify how
components can be assembled and very limited analytical capabilities. CAD
systems have been extended to support maps but typically have limited utility
for managing and analyzing large geographic databases.
Remote Sensing and GPS
Remote sensing is the art and science of making measurements of the earth using
sensors such as cameras carried on airplanes, GPS receivers, or other devices.
These sensors collect data in the form of images and provide specialized
capabilities for manipulating, analyzing, and visualizing those images. Lacking
strong geographic data management and analytical operations, they cannot be
called true GISs.
DBMS
Database management systems specialize in the storage and management of all
types of data including geographic data. DBMSs are optimized to store and
retrieve data and many GISs rely on them for this purpose. They do not have the
analytic and visualization tools common to GIS.
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