Lab 4: Introducing ArcMap

Exercise #1


Exercise #2


Exercise #3



Exercise #4



Exercise #5



ArcGIS is a fascinating piece of software that is directly applicable to almost any real life scenario. As I was going through the process of creating my maps, I noticed many similarities to photo-editing software such as Photoshop. For the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed my ArcMap experience. I had no idea that the ArcGIS software had so many capabilities. The concept of using data to create visual maps is incredibly interesting. Even though we simply followed directions in a tutorial, this is the same process that would be used in a real life GIS model.

Possibly the coolest concept of GIS is the ability to layer one data set atop another data set. Through this technique, it became possible to analyze the population density of the city, as well as the zoning of the parcels. I thought it was especially interesting that we could personalize our maps, such as using a different pattern for each zone (such as industry, commercial, and residential). Overall, this is the most rewarding lab I have done so far. Even though it took the most amount of time, it was incredibly interesting to finally get the chance to use actual GIS software.

While the use of GIS as a tool has countless potential, it also has several notable pitfalls. GIS allows geographers to create accurate three-dimensional models of the Earth and its numerous systems. GIS allows us to analyze both continuous and discrete data, and even combine the two types of data sets. In addition, we can use GIS for political purposes in the analysis of a particular proposition. GIS can be used to model nearly any scenario, be it airport expansion or even social issues such as racial segregation.

However, GIS also has significant pitfalls. For instance, to create an accurate GIS, a tremendous amount of data is required. Also, an accurate and detailed model requires a massive amount of storage capacity, such as a hard drive. As GIS is primarily used by professionals, there is not much concern for irresponsible and unregulated use. Most importantly, GIS can be deceiving. Similar to statistics, GIS can manipulate data to shift public policy and public opinion one way or another. For the most part, the benefits of GIS far outweigh the potential pitfalls.