This is a link to the QGIS website where you can download open-source GIS software for viewing, analyzing and manipulating geodata like our downloadable shapefiles.

In this course, you will explore a variety of open-source technologies for working with geosptial data, performing spatial analysis, and undertaking general data science. The first component of the class focuses on the use of QGIS and associated technologies (GDAL, PROJ, GRASS, SAGA, and Orfeo Toolbox). The second component of the class introduces Python and associated open-source libraries and modules (NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Seaborn, GeoPandas, Rasterio, WhiteboxTools, and Scikit-Learn) used by geospatial scientists and data scientists. We also provide an introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL) for performing table and spatial queries. This course is designed for individuals that have a background in GIS, such as working in the ArcGIS environment, but no prior experience using open-source software and/or coding. You will be asked to work through a series of lecture modules and videos broken into several topic areas, as outlined below. Fourteen assignments and the required data have been provided as hands-on opportunites to work with data and the discussed technologies and methods. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to contact us. We hope to continue to update and improve this course. This course was produced by West Virginia View (http://www.wvview.org/) with support from AmericaView (https://americaview.org/). This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Geological Survey under Grant/Cooperative Agreement No. G18AP00077. The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the U.S. Geological Survey. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey. After completing this course you will be able to: apply QGIS to visualize, query, and analyze vector and raster spatial data. use available resources to further expand your knowledge of open-source technologies. describe and use a variety of open data formats. code in Python at an intermediate-level. read, summarize, visualize, and analyze data using open Python libraries. create spatial predictive models using Python and associated libraries. use SQL to perform table and spatial queries at an intermediate-level.

Open source GIS software available for download

The Software Geographic Information Systems (GIS) market is thriving, with a market size of XXX million in 2025 and a CAGR of XX% projected for the period of 2025-2033. Digitalization, increasing demand for spatial data and analytics, and advancements in cloud computing and data storage are the primary drivers of this growth. Furthermore, the incorporation of GIS in various sectors such as disaster management, land information management, and infrastructure management is contributing to the market's expansion. Key trends shaping the market include the rise of mobile and cloud-based GIS, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for enhanced data analysis, and the adoption of open-source GIS platforms. Despite these growth factors, challenges such as data privacy concerns, a lack of skilled GIS professionals, and budgetary constraints for implementing GIS solutions may hinder market expansion. Key players in the market include Pasco Corporation, Ubisense Group, Beijing SuperMap Software, Hexagon, and Schneider Electric, among others. North America holds a significant market share, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific.

The global Geographic Information System (GIS) Software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing adoption across various sectors, including government, utilities, and transportation. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $15 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2025 to 2033. This significant expansion is fueled by several key factors. The rising need for precise location-based data analysis, coupled with advancements in cloud computing and big data technologies, is enabling the development of sophisticated and scalable GIS solutions. Furthermore, the integration of GIS with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), is opening new avenues for innovation and application. This leads to enhanced spatial data management, improved decision-making capabilities, and optimized resource allocation across diverse industries. Government initiatives promoting digital transformation and smart city development also contribute significantly to market growth. However, the market faces certain challenges. High initial investment costs for software and infrastructure, along with the need for skilled professionals to operate and maintain these systems, can hinder wider adoption, particularly among smaller organizations. Data security and privacy concerns associated with handling sensitive geospatial data also pose a significant restraint. Despite these limitations, the overall market outlook for GIS software remains highly positive, driven by the increasing reliance on location intelligence across a broad spectrum of industries and the continuous evolution of GIS technologies. The increasing availability of open-source GIS software is also expected to foster market growth, particularly in developing economies. By 2033, the market is projected to reach approximately $45 billion, signifying a substantial increase in market value and adoption.

This site is part of pilot effort at the US Department of Energy (DOE) - Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance to evaluate providing IT web services as a shared service, hosted on the cloud, and using only Free and Open Source Software (FOSS). The site is an integrated component of the larger NEPAnode project but is a stand alone service. The site allows users to upload static map images with no geographic data so that they can be accurately referenced/rectified on an webmap. This site allows for the revitalizing of otherwise unusable/archived maps such as historic maps, site surveys, site plans, etc. turning them into usable geographic data which is subsequently made available as a KML file for use in Google Earth/Maps and as a Web Mapping Service (WMS) for using in web-based webmapping application such as NEPAnode or in desktop GIS software.

Snapshot img

North America Geographic Information System Market Size 2025-2029

The geographic information system market size in North America is forecast to increase by USD 11.4 billion at a CAGR of 23.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite imagery, and sensors in various industries. In fleet management, GIS software is being used to optimize routes and improve operational efficiency. In the context of smart cities, GIS solutions are being utilized for content delivery, public safety, and building information modeling. The demand for miniaturization of technologies is also driving the market, allowing for the integration of GIS into smaller devices and applications. However, data security concerns remain a challenge, as the collection and storage of sensitive information requires robust security measures. The insurance industry is also leveraging GIS for telematics and risk assessment, while the construction sector uses GIS for server-based project management and planning. Overall, the GIS market is poised for continued growth as these trends and applications continue to evolve.

What will be the Size of the market During the Forecast Period?

Request Free Sample

The Geographic Information System (GIS) market encompasses a range of technologies and applications that enable the collection, management, analysis, and visualization of spatial data. Key industries driving market growth include transportation, infrastructure planning, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. Remote sensing technologies, such as satellite imaging and aerial photography, play a significant role in data collection. Artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) are increasingly integrated into GIS solutions for real-time location data processing and operational efficiency.
Applications span various sectors, including agriculture, natural resources, construction, and smart cities. GIS is essential for infrastructure analysis, disaster management, and land management. Geospatial technology enables spatial data integration, providing valuable insights for decision-making and optimization. Market size is substantial and growing, fueled by increasing demand for efficient urban planning, improved infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Geospatial startups continue to emerge, innovating in areas such as telematics, natural disasters, and smart city development.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Component

  Software
  Data
  Services


Deployment

  On-premise
  Cloud


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    Mexico
    US

By Component Insights

The software segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The Geographic Information System (GIS) market encompasses desktop, mobile, cloud, and server software for managing and analyzing spatial data. In North America, industry-specific GIS software dominates, with some commercial entities providing open-source alternatives for limited functions like routing and geocoding. Despite this, counterfeit products pose a threat, making open-source software a viable option for smaller applications. Market trends indicate a shift towards cloud-based GIS solutions for enhanced operational efficiency and real-time location data. Spatial data applications span various sectors, including transportation infrastructure planning, urban planning, natural resources management, environmental monitoring, agriculture, and disaster management. Technological innovations, such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and satellite imagery, are revolutionizing GIS solutions.

Cloud-based GIS solutions, IoT integration, and augmented reality are emerging trends. Geospatial technology is essential for smart city projects, climate monitoring, intelligent transportation systems, and land management. Industry statistics indicate steady growth, with key players focusing on product innovation, infrastructure optimization, and geospatial utility solutions.

Get a glance at the market report of share of various segments Request Free Sample

Market Dynamics

Our North America Geographic Information System Market researchers analyzed the data with 2024 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of the North America Geographic Information System Market?

Rising applications of geographic

Open-Source GIS plays a pivotal role in advancing GIS education, fostering research collaboration, and supporting global sustainability by enabling the sharing of data, models, and knowledge. However, the integration of big data, deep learning methods, and artificial intelligence deep learning in geospatial research presents significant challenges for GIS education. These include increasing software learning costs, higher computational power demand, and the management of fragmented information in the Web 2.0 context. Addressing these challenges while integrating emerging GIS innovations and restructuring GIS knowledge systems is crucial for the evolution of GIS Education 3.0. This study introduces a Visual Programming-based Geospatial Cyberinfrastructure (V-GCI) framework, integrated with the replicable and reproducible (R&R) framework, to enhance GIS function compatibility, learning scalability, and web GIS application interoperability. Through a case study on spatial accessibility using the generalized two-step floating catchment area method (G2SFCA), this paper demonstrates how V-GCI can reshape the GIS knowledge tree and its potential to enhance replicability and reproducibility within open-source GIS Education 3.0.

The global satellite remote sensing software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors. While precise figures for market size and CAGR aren't provided, considering the technological advancements and applications in agriculture (precision farming, crop monitoring), water conservancy (flood management, irrigation optimization), forest management (deforestation monitoring, resource assessment), and the public sector (urban planning, disaster response), a conservative estimate places the 2025 market size at approximately $2 billion. This figure reflects the substantial investments in satellite imagery acquisition and analysis capabilities worldwide. The market is further fueled by the rising adoption of cloud-based solutions, enhancing accessibility and scalability of software platforms. Trends such as the integration of AI and machine learning for automated image processing, the proliferation of high-resolution satellite imagery, and the increasing availability of open-source software are accelerating market expansion. However, factors such as the high cost of specialized software licenses and the need for skilled professionals to operate the sophisticated systems act as restraints. The market is segmented by application (agriculture, water conservancy, forest management, public sector, others) and software type (open-source, non-open-source). The North American and European markets currently hold significant shares, but the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth due to increasing infrastructure development and government initiatives promoting geospatial technologies. This dynamic market landscape presents lucrative opportunities for both established players and emerging companies in the years to come. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued growth, with a projected CAGR of approximately 12%, driven by the aforementioned technological advancements and broadening applications across various industry verticals. The competitive landscape is comprised of both major players like ESRI, Trimble, and PCI Geomatica, offering comprehensive suites of software, and smaller, specialized companies focusing on niche applications or open-source solutions. The market is characterized by both proprietary and open-source software options. Open-source solutions like QGIS and GRASS GIS offer cost-effective alternatives, particularly for research and smaller organizations, while commercial solutions provide advanced functionalities and support. The increasing availability of cloud-based solutions is blurring the lines between these segments, with hybrid models emerging that combine the benefits of both. Future growth will be significantly influenced by collaborations between software providers and satellite imagery providers, fostering a more integrated ecosystem and streamlining the data acquisition and processing workflow. The market will continue to benefit from advancements in satellite technology, producing higher-resolution, more frequent, and more affordable imagery.

ABSTRACT Watershed delineation, drainage network generation and determination of river hydraulic characteristics are important issues in hydrological sciences. In general, this information can be obtained from Digital Elevation Models (DEM) processing within GIS commercial softwares, such as ArcGIS and IDRISI. On the other hand, the use of open source GIS tools has increased significantly, and their advantages include free distribution, continuous development by user communities and full customization for specific requirements. Herein, we present the IPH-Hydro Tools, an open source tool coupled to MapWindow GIS software designed for watershed topology acquisition, including preprocessing steps in hydrological models such as MGB-IPH. In addition, several tests were carried out assessing the performance and applicability of the developed tool, given by a comparison with available GIS packages (ArcGIS, IDRISI, WhiteBox) for similar purposes. The IPH-Hydro Tools provided satisfactory results on tested applications, allowing for better drainage network and less processing time for catchment delineation. Regarding its limitations, the developed tool was incompatible with huge terrain data and showed some difficulties to represent drainage networks in extensive flat areas, which can occur in reservoirs and large rivers.

The Digital Geomorphic-GIS Map of Gulf Islands National Seashore (5-meter accuracy and 1-foot resolution 2006-2007 mapping), Mississippi and Florida is composed of GIS data layers and GIS tables, and is available in the following GRI-supported GIS data formats: 1.) a 10.1 file geodatabase (guis_geomorphology.gdb), a 2.) Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) geopackage, and 3.) 2.2 KMZ/KML file for use in Google Earth, however, this format version of the map is limited in data layers presented and in access to GRI ancillary table information. The file geodatabase format is supported with a 1.) ArcGIS Pro map file (.mapx) file (guis_geomorphology.mapx) and individual Pro layer (.lyrx) files (for each GIS data layer), as well as with a 2.) 10.1 ArcMap (.mxd) map document (guis_geomorphology.mxd) and individual 10.1 layer (.lyr) files (for each GIS data layer). The OGC geopackage is supported with a QGIS project (.qgz) file. Upon request, the GIS data is also available in ESRI 10.1 shapefile format. Contact Stephanie O'Meara (see contact information below) to acquire the GIS data in these GIS data formats. In addition to the GIS data and supporting GIS files, three additional files comprise a GRI digital geologic-GIS dataset or map: 1.) A GIS readme file (guis_geology_gis_readme.pdf), 2.) the GRI ancillary map information document (.pdf) file (guis_geomorphology.pdf) which contains geologic unit descriptions, as well as other ancillary map information and graphics from the source map(s) used by the GRI in the production of the GRI digital geologic-GIS data for the park, and 3.) a user-friendly FAQ PDF version of the metadata (guis_geomorphology_metadata_faq.pdf). Please read the guis_geology_gis_readme.pdf for information pertaining to the proper extraction of the GIS data and other map files. Google Earth software is available for free at: https://www.google.com/earth/versions/. QGIS software is available for free at: https://www.qgis.org/en/site/. Users are encouraged to only use the Google Earth data for basic visualization, and to use the GIS data for any type of data analysis or investigation. The data were completed as a component of the Geologic Resources Inventory (GRI) program, a National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Division funded program that is administered by the NPS Geologic Resources Division (GRD). For a complete listing of GRI products visit the GRI publications webpage: For a complete listing of GRI products visit the GRI publications webpage: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/geology/geologic-resources-inventory-products.htm. For more information about the Geologic Resources Inventory Program visit the GRI webpage: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/geology/gri,htm. At the bottom of that webpage is a "Contact Us" link if you need additional information. You may also directly contact the program coordinator, Jason Kenworthy (jason_kenworthy@nps.gov). Source geologic maps and data used to complete this GRI digital dataset were provided by the following: U.S. Geological Survey. Detailed information concerning the sources used and their contribution the GRI product are listed in the Source Citation section(s) of this metadata record (guis_geomorphology_metadata.txt or guis_geomorphology_metadata_faq.pdf). Users of this data are cautioned about the locational accuracy of features within this dataset. Based on the source map scale of 1:26,000 and United States National Map Accuracy Standards features are within (horizontally) 13.2 meters or 43.3 feet of their actual location as presented by this dataset. Users of this data should thus not assume the location of features is exactly where they are portrayed in Google Earth, ArcGIS, QGIS or other software used to display this dataset. All GIS and ancillary tables were produced as per the NPS GRI Geology-GIS Geodatabase Data Model v. 2.3. (available at: https://www.nps.gov/articles/gri-geodatabase-model.htm).

The global satellite remote sensing software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors. While precise figures for market size and CAGR aren't provided, a reasonable estimate based on industry reports and the stated study period (2019-2033) suggests a current market valuation (2025) in the range of $3-5 billion USD. This significant market size is fueled by several key factors. The agricultural sector relies heavily on remote sensing for precision farming, crop monitoring, and yield prediction, significantly contributing to market expansion. Similarly, the water conservancy and forest management sectors utilize satellite imagery and software for resource monitoring, disaster management, and sustainable practices. Government agencies and the public sector increasingly adopt these technologies for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and national security applications. The market's growth is further enhanced by advancements in open-source software, offering cost-effective alternatives and promoting wider adoption. Trends such as cloud-based solutions, improved data processing capabilities, and the integration of artificial intelligence are further accelerating market growth. However, the market faces certain constraints. High initial investment costs for software licenses and specialized hardware can act as a barrier for entry, particularly for smaller businesses and organizations in developing regions. Data security concerns and the need for skilled professionals to interpret the complex data generated also pose challenges. Despite these obstacles, the ongoing development of user-friendly interfaces, coupled with decreasing hardware costs and increasing availability of cloud-based services, is predicted to mitigate these restraints and sustain a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the range of 8-12% throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). Segmentation by application (Agriculture, Water Conservancy, Forest Management, Public Sector, Others) and software type (Open Source, Non-Open Source) reveals distinct market dynamics, with the non-open source segment currently holding a larger share due to its advanced capabilities. This trend is expected to continue, though the open-source segment will show considerable growth driven by its affordability and accessibility.

The global Geographic Information System (GIS) Tools market, valued at $2979.7 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing adoption across various sectors. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a substantial market expansion. Key drivers include the rising need for spatial data analysis in urban planning, environmental management, and infrastructure development. The increasing availability of cloud-based GIS solutions, offering enhanced scalability and accessibility, further fuels market growth. Furthermore, advancements in data visualization and analytics capabilities within GIS tools are attracting a wider range of users. Segmentation reveals a significant market share held by large enterprises, reflecting the considerable resources and data management needs of these organizations. Cloud-based solutions dominate the market, reflecting the shift towards flexible and cost-effective technology deployments. While the market faces some restraints like the high initial investment costs associated with implementing GIS systems and the requirement for skilled personnel, the overall market outlook remains positive due to the expanding applications and technological advancements in the field. North America currently holds a significant market share, driven by high technological adoption rates and the presence of major GIS solution providers. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years due to increasing urbanization and infrastructure development initiatives in rapidly growing economies like China and India. The market's growth trajectory is also influenced by the evolving needs of various industry verticals. The application of GIS tools in precision agriculture, disaster management, and supply chain optimization is creating new opportunities for market expansion. The integration of GIS with other technologies, such as IoT and AI, is leading to the development of more sophisticated and insightful applications. This convergence is enabling real-time data analysis and predictive modeling, offering businesses and governments valuable insights for informed decision-making. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging startups, driving innovation and fostering competition, ultimately benefiting end-users with a diverse range of solutions and pricing models. The ongoing development of open-source GIS software is also creating a more accessible and collaborative environment within the ecosystem.

This dataset is about books. It has 1 row and is filtered where the book is Learning GIS using open source software : an applied guide for geo-spatial analysis. It features 7 columns including author, publication date, language, and book publisher.

Snapshot img

GIS Market Size 2025-2029

The GIS market size is forecast to increase by USD 24.07 billion, at a CAGR of 20.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The Global Geographic Information System (GIS) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and GIS technologies. This convergence enables more effective spatial analysis and decision-making in various industries, particularly in soil and water management. However, the market faces challenges, including the lack of comprehensive planning and preparation leading to implementation failures of GIS solutions. Companies must address these challenges by investing in thorough project planning and collaboration between GIS and BIM teams to ensure successful implementation and maximize the potential benefits of these advanced technologies.
By focusing on strategic planning and effective implementation, organizations can capitalize on the opportunities presented by the growing adoption of GIS and BIM technologies, ultimately driving operational efficiency and innovation.

What will be the Size of the GIS Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The global Geographic Information Systems (GIS) market continues to evolve, driven by the increasing demand for advanced spatial data analysis and management solutions. GIS technology is finding applications across various sectors, including natural resource management, urban planning, and infrastructure management. The integration of Bing Maps, terrain analysis, vector data, Lidar data, and Geographic Information Systems enables precise spatial data analysis and modeling. Hydrological modeling, spatial statistics, spatial indexing, and route optimization are essential components of GIS, providing valuable insights for sectors such as public safety, transportation planning, and precision agriculture. Location-based services and data visualization further enhance the utility of GIS, enabling real-time mapping and spatial analysis.

The ongoing development of OGC standards, spatial data infrastructure, and mapping APIs continues to expand the capabilities of GIS, making it an indispensable tool for managing and analyzing geospatial data. The continuous unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns in the market reflect the dynamic nature of this technology and its applications.

How is this GIS Industry segmented?

The GIS industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Software
  Data
  Services


Type

  Telematics and navigation
  Mapping
  Surveying
  Location-based services


Device

  Desktop
  Mobile


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The software segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The Global Geographic Information System (GIS) market encompasses a range of applications and technologies, including raster data, urban planning, geospatial data, geocoding APIs, GIS services, routing APIs, aerial photography, satellite imagery, GIS software, geospatial analytics, public safety, field data collection, transportation planning, precision agriculture, OGC standards, location intelligence, remote sensing, asset management, network analysis, spatial analysis, infrastructure management, spatial data standards, disaster management, environmental monitoring, spatial modeling, coordinate systems, spatial overlay, real-time mapping, mapping APIs, spatial join, mapping applications, smart cities, spatial data infrastructure, map projections, spatial databases, natural resource management, Bing Maps, terrain analysis, vector data, Lidar data, and geographic information systems.

The software segment includes desktop, mobile, cloud, and server solutions. Open-source GIS software, with its industry-specific offerings, poses a challenge to the market, while the adoption of cloud-based GIS software represents an emerging trend. However, the lack of standardization and interoperability issues hinder the widespread adoption of cloud-based solutions. Applications in sectors like public safety, transportation planning, and precision agriculture are driving market growth. Additionally, advancements in technologies like remote sensing, spatial modeling, and real-time mapping are expanding the market's scope.

Request Free Sample

The Software segment was valued at USD 5.06 billion in 2019 and sho

Geographic Information System (GIS) Market Outlook

The global Geographic Information System (GIS) market size was valued at approximately USD 8.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 16.3 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period. One of the key growth factors driving this market is the increasing adoption of GIS technology across various industries such as agriculture, construction, and transportation, which is enhancing operational efficiencies and enabling better decision-making capabilities.

Several factors are contributing to the robust growth of the GIS market. Firstly, the increasing need for spatial data in urban planning, infrastructure development, and natural resource management is accelerating the demand for GIS solutions. For instance, governments and municipalities globally are increasingly relying on GIS for planning and managing urban sprawl, transportation systems, and utility networks. This growing reliance on spatial data for efficient resource allocation and policy-making is significantly propelling the GIS market.

Secondly, the advent of advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and machine learning is enhancing the capabilities of GIS systems. The integration of these technologies with GIS allows for real-time data analysis and predictive analytics, making GIS solutions more powerful and valuable. For example, AI-powered GIS can predict traffic patterns and help in effective city planning, while IoT-enabled GIS can monitor and manage utilities like water and electricity in real time, thus driving market growth.

Lastly, the rising focus on disaster management and environmental monitoring is further boosting the GIS market. Natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes necessitate the need for accurate and real-time spatial data to facilitate timely response and mitigation efforts. GIS technology plays a crucial role in disaster risk assessment, emergency response, and recovery planning, thereby increasing its adoption in disaster management agencies. Moreover, environmental monitoring for issues like deforestation, pollution, and climate change is becoming increasingly vital, and GIS is instrumental in tracking and addressing these challenges.

Regionally, the North American market is expected to hold a significant share due to the widespread adoption of advanced technologies and substantial investments in infrastructure development. Asia Pacific is anticipated to witness the fastest growth, driven by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and supportive government initiatives for smart city projects. Additionally, Europe is expected to show steady growth due to stringent regulations on environmental management and urban planning.

Component Analysis

The GIS market by component is segmented into hardware, software, and services. The hardware segment includes devices like GPS, imaging sensors, and other data capture devices. These tools are critical for collecting accurate spatial data, which forms the backbone of GIS solutions. The demand for advanced hardware components is rising, as organizations seek high-precision instruments for data collection. The advent of technologies such as LiDAR and drones has further enhanced the capabilities of GIS hardware, making data collection faster and more accurate.

In the software segment, GIS platforms and applications are used to store, analyze, and visualize spatial data. GIS software has seen significant advancements, with features like 3D mapping, real-time data integration, and cloud-based collaboration becoming increasingly prevalent. Companies are investing heavily in upgrading their GIS software to leverage these advanced features, thereby driving the growth of the software segment. Open-source GIS software is also gaining traction, providing cost-effective solutions for small and medium enterprises.

The services segment encompasses various professional services such as consulting, integration, maintenance, and training. As GIS solutions become more complex and sophisticated, the need for specialized services to implement and manage these systems is growing. Consulting services assist organizations in selecting the right GIS solutions and integrating them with existing systems. Maintenance and support services ensure that GIS systems operate efficiently and remain up-to-date with the latest technological advancements. Training services are also crucial, as they help users maximize the potential of GIS technologies.

This map shows the free and open data status of county public geospatial (GIS) data across Minnesota. The accompanying data set can be used to make similar maps using GIS software.

Counties shown in this dataset as having free and open public geospatial data (with or without a policy) are: Aitkin, Anoka, Becker, Beltrami, Benton, Big Stone, Carlton, Carver, Cass, Chippewa, Chisago, Clay, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Dakota, Douglas, Grant, Hennepin, Hubbard, Isanti, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lac qui Parle, Lake, Lyon, Marshall, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Mower, Norman, Olmsted, Otter Tail, Pipestone, Polk, Pope, Ramsey, Renville, Rice, Scott, Sherburne, St. Louis, Stearns, Steele, Stevens, Traverse, Wabasha, Waseca, Washington, Wilkin, Winona, Wright, and Yellow Medicine.

To see if a county's data is distributed via the Minnesota Geospatial Commons, check the Commons organizations page: https://gisdata.mn.gov/organization

To see if a county distributes data via its website, check the link(s) on the Minnesota County GIS Contacts webpage: https://www.mngeo.state.mn.us/county_contacts.html

The global satellite remote sensing software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for precise geospatial data across diverse sectors. The market, currently estimated at $2.5 billion in 2025, is projected to achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of $7.2 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising adoption of cloud-based solutions and the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies are enhancing the analytical capabilities and accessibility of remote sensing data. Secondly, the growing need for efficient resource management in agriculture, water conservancy, and forestry is driving the demand for sophisticated software capable of processing and interpreting satellite imagery. Furthermore, governmental initiatives promoting the use of geospatial technologies for infrastructure development and environmental monitoring are contributing to market growth. The open-source software segment is expected to witness significant growth due to its cost-effectiveness and flexibility, while the non-open source segment will maintain its market share driven by its advanced features and dedicated support. Geographic regions such as North America and Europe are currently leading the market, driven by robust technological infrastructure and high adoption rates. However, emerging economies in Asia-Pacific are poised for significant growth owing to increasing investments in infrastructure and technological advancements. Despite the positive outlook, the market faces certain challenges. High initial investment costs for both software and hardware can be a barrier to entry for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Furthermore, the complexity of remote sensing data analysis and the need for skilled professionals to interpret the results can hinder wider adoption. Data security and privacy concerns, especially concerning sensitive geospatial information, also present hurdles for market expansion. Overcoming these challenges through collaborative partnerships, the development of user-friendly interfaces, and robust data security measures will be crucial for driving continued growth in the satellite remote sensing software market.

Agricultural researchers are embracing remote sensing tools to phenotype and monitor agriculture crops. Specifically, large quantities of data are now being collected on small plot research studies using Unoccupied Aerial Systems (UAS, aka drones), ground systems, or other technologies but data processing and analysis lags behind. One major contributor to current data processing bottlenecks has been the lack of publicly available software tools tailored towards remote sensing of small plots and usability for researchers inexperienced in remote sensing. To address these needs we created plot shapefile maker (R/UAS::plotshpcreate): an open source R function which rapidly creates ESRI polygon shapefiles to the desired dimensions of individual agriculture research plots areas of interest and associates plot specific information. Plotshpcreate was developed to utilize inputs containing experimental design, field orientation, and plot dimensions for easily creating a multi-polygon shapefile of an entire small plot experiment. Output shapefiles are based on the user inputs geolocation of the research field ensuring accurate overlay of polygons often without manual user adjustment. The output shapefile is useful in GIS software to extract plot level data tracing back to the unique IDs of the experimental plots. Plotshpcreate is available on GitHub (https://github.com/andersst91/UAStools).

The global Geographic Information Systems (GIS) market is projected to reach a value of USD 2890.3 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period (2025-2033). The growing demand for GIS solutions for urban planning, infrastructure management, environmental monitoring, and disaster response is driving market growth. Additionally, the increasing adoption of cloud-based GIS platforms and the integration of GIS with other technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are contributing to the market's expansion. Key trends shaping the GIS market include the rise of location intelligence, which involves using GIS data to make informed decisions about spatial relationships and patterns. The increasing availability of open-source GIS software and data is also driving market growth, as it enables organizations to access and utilize GIS without significant upfront costs. Furthermore, the adoption of GIS by governments and businesses for decision-making and planning purposes is contributing to the market's expansion. Among the application segments, transport and logistics are expected to witness significant growth as GIS plays a crucial role in optimizing routes, managing fleet operations, and improving supply chain efficiency.