GIS Glossary

Data that varies smoothly across a surface, such as elevation or temperature, requiring specialized spatial analysis techniques.

A line connecting points of equal elevation, used in terrain analysis and visualization.

A known geographic location used to align spatial datasets accurately, crucial for georeferencing and spatial accuracy.

A set of values (x, y, and sometimes z) that define a location in space, foundational for all spatial data analysis.

Mathematical methods for defining spatial features using bearings and distances, important in surveying and spatial calculations.

A reference framework used to define the positions of features in space, ensuring spatial data from different sources aligns correctly.

The process of converting spatial data between different coordinate systems, ensuring data compatibility.

A vector data model for storing geographic features and their attributes, often used in spatial analysis workflows.

A table storing attribute data for features in a coverage, supporting attribute-based spatial analysis.

A polygon feature within a coverage data model, representing area-based spatial entities.

A visual interface that displays spatial data and analytics for real-time monitoring and decision-making.

A method for improving thematic mapping accuracy by using ancillary data to refine the spatial distribution of data values.

The fundamental building blocks in GIS, representing facts, figures, or spatial information ready for processing and analysis.

The degree to which spatial data correctly represents real-world features, crucial for reliable analysis.

Grouping spatial data into discrete cells or bins for statistical analysis and visualization.

The process of translating data from one format to another, ensuring compatibility for spatial analysis.

A column in a data table representing a specific attribute, essential for organizing and analysing spatial data.

A collection of related GIS data tables or layers, often analysed collectively to extract spatial patterns.

Software used to store, retrieve, and manage spatial and attribute data, supporting complex spatial queries and analyses.

A mathematical model that defines the reference for geographic coordinates, ensuring spatial data from different sources aligns correctly.