A GIS map can show both man-made features like buildings and bridges, as well as natural features like rivers and trees. They can also show spatial relationships and connectivity, as well as highlight trends and patterns over time. GIS maps are essential for applications like environmental management, business logistics, urban planning and disaster response thanks to their powerful analytical capabilities and interactive elements.

The accuracy of GIS mapping depends on a few factors, such as the technology used, processing methods and data quality. Advanced software and integration techniques also enhance accuracy, making GIS maps highly reliable for many applications, but their precision depends heavily on the specific context and requirements of their use.

It allows for better land-use planning, road and utility maintenance, emergency management, infrastructure assessment, and property and development management. New data sensors, from soil temperature to vehicles, traffic cameras or video feeds from stores and stadiums, increase opportunities for GIS mapping to support increased efficiencies and reduce waste. Spatial analysis in retail is helping the industry to gain invaluable insights in stock delivery, store management, inventory management, marketing and sales.

Map projection is the action of converting the three-dimensional, curved surface of the Earth into a two-dimensional map. This is achieved through mathematical techniques which can create distortions to shapes, areas, distance and direction. Different mapping needs based on purpose and region are met by various types of projection, such as conic, cylindrical and azimuthal. In order to minimize distortions, you need to choose the right projection type to ensure precise spatial analysis and effective data visualization.

Map algebra in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is the foundation for performing mathematical operations on raster data (pixelated or gridded data associated with a geographic location) to determine spatial analysis and modeling. Because map algebra turns spatial data into insights, it is often used for decision-making in fields such as environmental management and urban planning.