GIS Tools Apps and Alternatives

A geographic information system (GIS), is a system created to help with the gathering, manipulation, analysis, management and storage of geographic or spatial data.

GIS tools offer users the possibility to create maps, analyze geographic information and even generate 3D representations of spatial data. These applications normally make it possible to digitize physical maps and manipulate the data in order to generate maps or other visual representations that can prove useful.

However, this list also includes simpler applications that are only designed to help users analyze geographic and spatial data stored in various formats, without actually manipulating it in any way. Choosing the right tool is important, as some of the more complex solutions are only accessible to experienced users.

GIS applications are normally only created with professionals in mind, but there are quite a few programs out there that offer a more novice-friendly approach, and you can find a few of them on this list.