GIS can be used as tool in both problem solving and decision making processes, as well as for visualization of data in a spatial environment. Geospatial data can be analyzed to determine (1) the location of features and relationships to other features, (2) where the most and/or least of some feature exists, (3) the density of features in a given space, (4) what is happening inside an area of interest (AOI), (5) what is happening nearby some feature or phenomenon, and (6) and how a specific area has changed over time (and in what way).
1. Mapping where things are : We can map the spatial location of real-world features and visualize the spatial relationships among them.
2. Mapping quantities : People map quantities, such as where the most and least are, to find places that meet their criteria or to see the relationships between places.
3. Mapping densities : Sometimes it is more important to map concentrations, or a quantity normalized by area or total number.
4. Finding what is inside : We can use GIS to determine what is happening or what features are located inside a specific area/region. We can determine the characteristics of "inside" by creating specific criteria to define an area of interest (AOI).
5. Finding what is nearby : We can find out what is happening within a set distance of a feature or event by mapping what is nearby using geoprocessing tools like BUFFER.
6. Mapping change : We can map the change in a specific geographic area to anticipate future conditions, decide on a course of action, or to evaluate the results of an action or policy.