Geographical Information System Essay, Research Paper

GIS Geographical Information System originated in the 1960s. During the early days of the technology the use was limited to a small group of practicioners. It is a information technology which analizes, stores, and displays both spatial and non-spatial data. It is used in many different specializations. It is also very useful for engineers, which will be shown in this presentation. In environmental engineering, GIS can be used for estimation of flooding risk and determining water quality, among others. The ability to calculate flood risk is a very important feature of GIS, largely responsible for the increase of its use. The 1990s have been affected by flooding around the world, especially in the United States. The Mississippi river floods were a great disaster, and some of the losses may have bee prevented had the areas at high risk not been urbanized. Milwaukee was also hit by flooding a few years ago, causing much property loss and distress. After these, and other unfortunate instances, GIS was essentially rediscovered as a useful tool for the calculating flood risk. The ability to calculate flood risk will help save future construction from destruction, and will steer urbanization and development to areas where it will be safe.