By Shahabuddin Amerudin
Introduction
In the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), QGIS stands tall as an open-source software solution renowned for its versatility, user-friendliness, and powerful geospatial capabilities. However, you may be surprised to learn that QGIS did not always go by this name. Originally christened as “Quantum GIS,” the software underwent a transformation in its nomenclature. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this transition and its impact on the GIS community.
Simplification for Accessibility
One of the primary reasons for dropping the “Quantum” from its name was simplification. By becoming “QGIS,” the software simplified its branding, creating a name that was shorter, catchier, and more memorable for users around the world. “Quantum GIS” carried a certain technical weight that might have deterred newcomers to GIS. The streamlined “QGIS” moniker made the software more approachable and inviting to a broader audience [1].
Avoiding Misconceptions
The choice to shed the “Quantum” part of the name was also informed by a desire to prevent misconceptions. While “Quantum” might conjure images of advanced quantum computing, it’s important to clarify that QGIS is not directly connected to quantum computing technology. It is a traditional open-source GIS software that employs classical computing methods. The name change helped to remove any potential ambiguity and ensure that users understood the software’s true nature and purpose [2].
Internationalisation for a Global Audience
In our increasingly interconnected world, software must transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. The name “Quantum” may have carried different connotations and pronunciations in various languages and cultures, potentially leading to confusion. By adopting “QGIS” as its official name, the software took a significant step toward becoming more internationally friendly. The simplified name allowed users from diverse backgrounds to engage with the software without linguistic hurdles or misunderstandings [3].
Embracing Rebranding
Rebranding is a common practice in the software industry, and it serves multiple purposes. It can breathe new life into a software’s image, attract new users, and align the software with evolving goals and objectives. QGIS’s transformation from “Quantum GIS” to “QGIS” was a strategic rebranding move that not only modernized the software’s identity but also reflected its commitment to staying relevant and accessible in the ever-evolving GIS landscape [4].
Continued Excellence
It’s important to note that the change from “Quantum GIS” to “QGIS” did not alter the software’s core functionality or purpose. QGIS remains a powerful open-source GIS tool, and its dedication to delivering top-notch geospatial capabilities to users worldwide remains unwavering. The software continues to be actively developed and maintained under its new name, and it remains a cornerstone of the GIS community for a wide range of geospatial tasks and projects [5].
Conclusion
The transition from “Quantum GIS” to “QGIS” represents more than just a name change. It symbolizes a commitment to accessibility, clarity, and internationalization in the world of GIS software. As QGIS continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the GIS community, it stands as a testament to the software’s dedication to excellence and its unwavering commitment to serving the geospatial needs of users worldwide.
References
- QGIS. (2023). QGIS Home. Retrieved from https://www.qgis.org/en/site/index.html
- QGIS. (2021, January 17). The History of QGIS. Retrieved from https://www.qgis.org/en/site/getinvolved/history/index.html
- Huber, M., & Resch, B. (2018). GIS Across Cultures: Cultural Differences in GIS. In M. Duckham, M. F. Goodchild, & M. F. Worboys (Eds.), Geographic Information Science (pp. 395-414). CRC Press.
- The Open Group. (2016). The Power of the Brand. Retrieved from https://www.opengroup.org/the-power-of-the-brand
- QGIS. (2023). About. Retrieved from https://www.qgis.org/en/site/about/index.html
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). From Quantum GIS to QGIS: The Evolution of a Geospatial Powerhouse. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=7009 (Accessed: 6 September 2023).
