By Shahabuddin Amerudin
Geographic Information System (GIS) software has become an integral part of modern-day organizations that deal with spatial data. With a vast array of GIS software available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your organization. However, by following standard practices and guidelines for evaluating GIS software, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your organization’s needs and requirements.
Here are some commonly used approaches for evaluating GIS software:
Criteria-Based Evaluation
One of the most popular methods for assessing GIS software is criteria-based evaluation. This method involves creating a set of criteria that are essential for your organization and evaluating GIS software based on each criterion. The criteria may include factors such as functionality, usability, performance, data compatibility, integration, support, cost, and industry adoption. Each criterion may be given a weight or importance score, and the software can be evaluated and compared based on the overall score. To identify the software that best meets their requirements, the organization can evaluate GIS software options like ArcGIS, QGIS, and MapInfo based on how well they fulfill each criterion. This method facilitates organizations in determining which GIS software best meets their needs based on a thorough and methodical evaluation.
Use Case Evaluation
Another approach for evaluating GIS software is use case evaluation. This method entails recognizing particular use cases or workflows that are relevant to the organization and assessing the GIS software based on how effectively it supports those use cases. Use cases may include tasks such as data visualization, spatial analysis, data management, and workflow automation. The software can be evaluated based on how well it meets the requirements and objectives of each use case. The organization can then evaluate GIS software options such as GeoDa, IDRISI, and GRASS based on how well they support each use case. To identify the software that best meets the organization’s requirements, the outcomes can be compared. This approach enables organizations to identify which GIS software best meets their requirements based on particular use cases and workflows.
Peer Review
A third approach for evaluating GIS software is peer review. This method entails requesting feedback and reviews from other professionals in your field who have experience using the GIS software. Peer reviews can offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the software, as well as its overall effectiveness and usefulness for specific workflows and tasks. The organization can seek feedback and reviews on GIS software options being considered for spatial analysis. The strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness of each software as assessed by peers can be considered by the organization. This method allows organizations to gain valuable insights from experienced professionals in the field and make informed decisions about GIS software.
Trial and Testing
Trial and testing are the fourth method for evaluating GIS software. This method involves testing the GIS software in a real-world scenario, using actual data and workflows that are relevant to the organization. This approach enables the organization to assess how well the software meets their specific requirements and needs in a more practical setting. The organization can conduct trials of several GIS software options such as Global Mapper, Manifold GIS, and OpenJump to evaluate their performance. To identify the software that best meets the organization’s requirements, the results can be compared. By conducting trials and testing, organizations can determine which GIS software is most appropriate for their requirements and workflows.
Conclusion
GIS software is an essential tool for organizations that deal with spatial data. However, with a vast array of GIS software available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. By using one or more of the above approaches, organizations can evaluate GIS software in a comprehensive and systematic way and make an informed decision about which software best meets their needs. Ultimately, the evaluation process should align with the organization’s goals and objectives and lead to the selection of the GIS software that offers the most significant value and meets the organization’s requirements.
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). Approaches for Evaluating GIS Software. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6223 (Accessed: 2 April 2023).
