A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. ​With this unique capability, GIS reveals deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships, and situations — helping users make smarter decisions.

GIS applications are tools that allow users to create interactive queries (user-created searches), analyze spatial information, edit data in maps, and present the results of all these operations. GIS (more commonly GIScience) sometimes refers to geographic information science (GIScience), the science underlying geographic concepts, applications, and systems. Since the mid-1980s, geographic information systems have become valuable tool used to support a variety of city and regional planning functions.

GIS can refer to a number of different technologies, processes, techniques and methods. It is attached to many operations and has many applications related to engineering, planning, management, transport/logistics, insurance, telecommunications, and business. For that reason, GIS and location intelligence applications can be the foundation for many location-enabled services that rely on analysis and visualization.

GIS can relate unrelated information by using location as the key index variable. Locations or extents in the Earth space–time may be recorded as dates/times of occurrence, and x, y, and z coordinates representing, longitude, latitude, and elevation, respectively. All Earth-based spatial–temporal location and extent references should be relatable to one another and ultimately to a "real" physical location or extent. This key characteristic of GIS has begun to open new avenues of scientific inquiry.

Geographic Information Systems are powerful decision-making tools for any business or industry since it allows the analyzation of environmental, demographic, and topographic data. Data intelligence compiled from gis software applications help companies and various industries, and consumers, make informed decisions.

Mapping. GIS can be used to provide a visual interpretation of data. Google Maps is an excellent example of a web-based GIS mapping solution that people use for everyday navigation purposes.

Telecom and Network Services. Organizations can incorporate geographic data into their complex network design, optimization, planning, and maintenance activities. This data enhances telecom processes through better customer-relationship management and location services.

Environmental Impact Analysis. Data gathered via GIS program is vital for conserving natural resources and protecting the environment. Impact statements assess the magnitude of human impact on the environment, which GIS integration helps indicate.

Agricultural Applications. Geo informatic system data helps create more efficient farming techniques, alongside analyzing soil data in an advanced fashion. This can increase food production in different parts of the world.

Navigation. Web-based navigation maps use geo info systemsdata to provide the public with useful information. Web maps are regularly updated per GIS information and are used consistently in everyday life.

Banking. Banking has evolved to become market-driven, and a bank’s success depends mainly on its ability to provide customer-driven services. GIS data plays an essential role in planning, organizing, and decision making in the banking industry.

Planning and Community Development. GIS data helps us understand and meet global challenges. As GIS technology rapidly advances, there are various innovative applications in the planning sector. GIS tools can be used to integrate geographic intelligence into planning processes, and have the potential to change how we think and behave.