By Shahabuddin Amerudin
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and geospatial software are two distinct tools that are widely used for working with geospatial data. GIS software is a specialized type of software that allows users to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, and display data that is geographically referenced (Bolstad, 2016). In contrast, geospatial software encompasses a wider range of tools and technologies, including remote sensing software, GPS software, and mapping software, which are used in the collection, processing, and analysis of geospatial data.
GIS software is used for a variety of tasks, including spatial analysis, map creation, data management, and data visualization. It is specifically designed for managing, analyzing, and displaying geographic information (Bolstad, 2016). GIS software is widely used in various industries, such as urban planning, environmental management, and emergency response.
ESRI’s ArcGIS is a popular GIS software that allows users to create and edit maps, perform spatial analysis, manage data, and create custom visualizations (ESRI, n.d.). QGIS is another open-source GIS software that provides similar functionalities and is widely used by researchers and professionals worldwide (QGIS, n.d.). Both ArcGIS and QGIS are designed to work with different data types, such as vector data, raster data, and remote sensing data, and offer various spatial analysis tools that help users make informed decisions.
Geospatial software, on the other hand, refers to a broader category of software that includes GIS as well as other tools that are used for working with geospatial data. Remote sensing software, such as ENVI, Erdas Imagine, and Opticks, is used to extract information from remote sensing data, such as land use and land cover, vegetation cover, and topography (Lillesand et al., 2014). GPS software, such as Garmin BaseCamp and Trimble GPS Pathfinder Office, is used to capture and analyze GPS data, such as location, time, speed, and elevation (Van Sickle, 2003). Mapping software, such as Google Earth and Mapbox, is used to create and edit maps and visualize geospatial data (Google Earth, n.d.; Mapbox, n.d.).
While there is some overlap in functionality between GIS software and other geospatial software, each one has unique features and capabilities that make it well-suited for specific tasks. For example, remote sensing software is used to extract information from remote sensing data, while GPS software is used to capture and analyze GPS data. In contrast, GIS software is used to manage and analyze geographic information and create maps (Bolstad, 2016).
Moreover, with advancements in technology and the increasing availability of geospatial data, the demand for both GIS and geospatial software is growing rapidly. As a result, there are many new and innovative software solutions that are emerging in the market, making it easier for researchers and professionals to work with geospatial data more efficiently and effectively.
In conclusion, GIS software and geospatial software are two distinct tools that are used for working with geospatial data. GIS software is specifically designed for managing, analyzing, and displaying geographic information, while geospatial software encompasses a broader range of tools and technologies that are used in the collection, processing, and analysis of geospatial data. Understanding the differences between these two types of software can help users choose the right tools for their specific needs.
References:
Bolstad, P. (2016). GIS Fundamentals: A First Text on Geographic Information Systems. Eider Press.
ESRI. (n.d.). ArcGIS. Retrieved from https://www.esri.com/
Google Earth. (n.d.). Google Earth. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/earth/
Lillesand, T., Kiefer, R. W., & Chipman, J. (2014). Remote Sensing and Image Interpretation. John Wiley & Sons.
Mapbox. (n.d.). Mapbox. Retrieved from https://www.mapbox.com/
QGIS. (n.d.). QGIS. Retrieved from https://qgis.org/en/site/
Van Sickle, J. (2003). GPS for Land Surveyors. CRC Press.
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). GIS Software vs Geospatial Software: Understanding the Differences. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6262 (Accessed: 3 April 2023).
