The Power of Overlay: Making Maps Think for You Maps are great at showing us where things are, but GIS goes a step further by helping us understand how things relate to each other spatially. One of the most powerful ways GIS does this is through overlay analysis, a technique that works with both vector… Continue reading
Posts Tagged → GIS
The Fundamentals of Coordinate Systems
Coordinate systems and map projections are super important because they help us accurately represent locations on Earth, align data from different sources, and minimize distortions when we create flat maps from a round planet. Without a consistent coordinate system, like latitude and longitude, we wouldn’t be able to pinpoint locations or analyze spatial data properly…. Continue reading
The Hidden Bias in Maps
Learning the Modifiable Spatial Unit Problem (MAUP) Have you ever noticed how the way we draw boundaries on a map can totally change the story the data tells? Think about it: if we look at average income by State, we might see big differences county by county… But if we zoom in and look at… Continue reading
Cartographic Principles, Classification and Symbology
Cartography is the art and science of making maps, and in the context of geographic information systems (GIS) it is a critical step in turning data into information people can actually use. Maps are not just pictures of geography—they are carefully designed tools that help us navigate, see patterns, understand relationships, and share knowledge about… Continue reading