Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are the collection of computer hardware, accurate maps, corresponding databases, and the software that enables users to process location-based information in a useful manner. The maps are generally provided by government agencies, such as the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

GIS applications allow users to create interactive queries, analyze spatial information, edit data, maps, and present the results of all these operations to facilitate planning and decision-making. This tool is already used in a wide range of applications including scientific investigations, resource management, asset management, urban planning, homeland security, sales and marketing, and logistics.  For example, GIS allows emergency planners to calculate emergency response times in the event of a natural disaster.  It may also be used to manage land registration, or by businesses to site a new geographic area to take advantage of a previously underserved market.