In this course, you will learn to work within the free and open-source R environment with a specific focus on working with and analyzing geospatial data. We will cover a wide variety of data and spatial data analytics topics, and you will learn how to code in R along the way. The Introduction module provides more background info about the course and course set up. This course is designed for someone with some prior GIS knowledge. For example, you should know the basics of working with maps, map projections, and vector and raster data. You should be able to perform common spatial analysis tasks and make map layouts. If you do not have a GIS background, we would recommend checking out the West Virginia View GIScience class. We do not assume that you have any prior experience with R or with coding. So, don't worry if you haven't developed these skill sets yet. That is a major goal in this course. Background material will be provided using code examples, videos, and presentations. We have provided assignments to offer hands-on learning opportunities. Data links for the lecture modules are provided within each module while data for the assignments are linked to the assignment buttons below. Please see the sequencing document for our suggested order in which to work through the material. After completing this course you will be able to: prepare, manipulate, query, and generally work with data in R. perform data summarization, comparisons, and statistical tests. create quality graphs, map layouts, and interactive web maps to visualize data and findings. present your research, methods, results, and code as web pages to foster reproducible research. work with spatial data in R. analyze vector and raster geospatial data to answer a question with a spatial component. make spatial models and predictions using regression and machine learning. code in the R language at an intermediate level.

The files linked to this reference are the geospatial data created as part of the completion of the baseline vegetation inventory project for the NPS park unit. Current format is ArcGIS file geodatabase but older formats may exist as shapefiles. We converted the photointerpreted data into a format usable in a geographic information system (GIS) by employing three fundamental processes: (1) orthorectify, (2) digitize, and (3) develop the geodatabase. All digital map automation was projected in Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM), Zone 16, using the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83). Orthorectify: We orthorectified the interpreted overlays by using OrthoMapper, a softcopy photogrammetric software for GIS. One function of OrthoMapper is to create orthorectified imagery from scanned and unrectified imagery (Image Processing Software, Inc., 2002). The software features a method of visual orientation involving a point-and-click operation that uses existing orthorectified horizontal and vertical base maps. Of primary importance to us, OrthoMapper also has the capability to orthorectify the photointerpreted overlays of each photograph based on the reference information provided. Digitize: To produce a polygon vector layer for use in ArcGIS (Environmental Systems Research Institute [ESRI], Redlands, California), we converted each raster-based image mosaic of orthorectified overlays containing the photointerpreted data into a grid format by using ArcGIS. In ArcGIS, we used the ArcScan extension to trace the raster data and produce ESRI shapefiles. We digitally assigned map-attribute codes (both map-class codes and physiognomic modifier codes) to the polygons and checked the digital data against the photointerpreted overlays for line and attribute consistency. Ultimately, we merged the individual layers into a seamless layer. Geodatabase: At this stage, the map layer has only map-attribute codes assigned to each polygon. To assign meaningful information to each polygon (e.g., map-class names, physiognomic definitions, links to NVCS types), we produced a feature-class table, along with other supportive tables and subsequently related them together via an ArcGIS Geodatabase. This geodatabase also links the map to other feature-class layers produced from this project, including vegetation sample plots, accuracy assessment (AA) sites, aerial photo locations, and project boundary extent. A geodatabase provides access to a variety of interlocking data sets, is expandable, and equips resource managers and researchers with a powerful GIS tool.

This collection consists of geospatial data layers and summary data at the country and country sub-division levels that are part of USAID's Demographic Health Survey Spatial Data Repository. This collection includes geographically-linked health and demographic data from the DHS Program and the U.S. Census Bureau for mapping in a geographic information system (GIS). The data includes indicators related to: fertility, family planning, maternal and child health, gender, HIV/AIDS, literacy, malaria, nutrition, and sanitation. Each set of files is associated with a specific health survey for a given year for over 90 different countries that were part of the following surveys:Demographic Health Survey (DHS)Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS)Service Provisions Assessment (SPA)Other qualitative surveys (OTH)Individual files are named with identifiers that indicate: country, survey year, survey, and in some cases the name of a variable or indicator. A list of the two-letter country codes is included in a CSV file.Datasets are subdivided into the following folders:Survey boundaries: polygon shapefiles of administrative subdivision boundaries for countries used in specific surveys. Indicator data: polygon shapefiles and geodatabases of countries and subdivisions with 25 of the most common health indicators collected in the DHS. Estimates generated from survey data.Modeled surfaces: geospatial raster files that represent gridded population and health indicators generated from survey data, for several countries.Geospatial covariates: CSV files that link survey cluster locations to ancillary data (known as covariates) that contain data on topics including population, climate, and environmental factors.Population estimates: spreadsheets and polygon shapefiles for countries and subdivisions with 5-year age/sex group population estimates and projections for 2000-2020 from the US Census Bureau, for designated countries in the PEPFAR program.Workshop materials: a tutorial with sample data for learning how to map health data using DHS SDR datasets with QGIS. Documentation that is specific to each dataset is included in the subfolders, and a methodological summary for all of the datasets is included in the root folder as an HTML file. File-level metadata is available for most files. Countries for which data included in the repository include: Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Benin, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cape Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Congo (Democratic Republic of the), Cote d'Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini (Swaziland), Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Viet Nam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

This paper presents the importance of simple spatial statistics techniques applied in positional quality control of spatial data. To this end, Analysis methods of point data spatial distribution pattern are presented, as well as bias analysis in the positional discrepancies samples. To evaluate the points spatial distribution Nearest Neighbor and Ripley's K function methods were used. As for bias analysis, the average directional vectors of discrepancies and the circular variance were used. A methodology for positional quality control of spatial data is proposed, in which includes sampling planning and its spatial distribution pattern evaluation, analyzing the data normality through the application of bias tests, and positional accuracy classification according to a standard. For the practical experiment, an orthoimage generated from a PRISM scene of the ALOS satellite was evaluated. Results showed that the orthoimage is accurate on a scale of 1:25,000, being classified as Class A according to the Brazilian standard positional accuracy, not showing bias at the coordinates. The main contribution of this work is the incorporation of spatial statistics techniques in cartographic quality control.

This paper provides an abstract analysis of parallel processing strategies for spatial and spatio-temporal data. It isolates aspects such as data locality and computational locality as well as redundancy and locally sequential access as central elements of parallel algorithm design for spatial data. Furthermore, the paper gives some examples from simple and advanced GIS and spatial data analysis highlighting both that big data systems have been around long before the current hype of big data and that they follow some design principles which are inevitable for spatial data including distributed data structures and messaging, which are, however, incompatible with the popular MapReduce paradigm. Throughout this discussion, the need for a replacement or extension of the MapReduce paradigm for spatial data is derived. This paradigm should be able to deal with the imperfect data locality inherent to spatial data hindering full independence of non-trivial computational tasks. We conclude that more research is needed and that spatial big data systems should pick up more concepts like graphs, shortest paths, raster data, events, and streams at the same time instead of solving exactly the set of spatially separable problems such as line simplifications or range queries in manydifferent ways.

The establishment of a BES Multi-User Geodatabase (BES-MUG) allows for the storage, management, and distribution of geospatial data associated with the Baltimore Ecosystem Study. At present, BES data is distributed over the internet via the BES website. While having geospatial data available for download is a vast improvement over having the data housed at individual research institutions, it still suffers from some limitations. BES-MUG overcomes these limitations; improving the quality of the geospatial data available to BES researches, thereby leading to more informed decision-making. BES-MUG builds on Environmental Systems Research Institute's (ESRI) ArcGIS and ArcSDE technology. ESRI was selected because its geospatial software offers robust capabilities. ArcGIS is implemented agency-wide within the USDA and is the predominant geospatial software package used by collaborating institutions. Commercially available enterprise database packages (DB2, Oracle, SQL) provide an efficient means to store, manage, and share large datasets. However, standard database capabilities are limited with respect to geographic datasets because they lack the ability to deal with complex spatial relationships. By using ESRI's ArcSDE (Spatial Database Engine) in conjunction with database software, geospatial data can be handled much more effectively through the implementation of the Geodatabase model. Through ArcSDE and the Geodatabase model the database's capabilities are expanded, allowing for multiuser editing, intelligent feature types, and the establishment of rules and relationships. ArcSDE also allows users to connect to the database using ArcGIS software without being burdened by the intricacies of the database itself. For an example of how BES-MUG will help improve the quality and timeless of BES geospatial data consider a census block group layer that is in need of updating. Rather than the researcher downloading the dataset, editing it, and resubmitting to through ORS, access rules will allow the authorized user to edit the dataset over the network. Established rules will ensure that the attribute and topological integrity is maintained, so that key fields are not left blank and that the block group boundaries stay within tract boundaries. Metadata will automatically be updated showing who edited the dataset and when they did in the event any questions arise. Currently, a functioning prototype Multi-User Database has been developed for BES at the University of Vermont Spatial Analysis Lab, using Arc SDE and IBM's DB2 Enterprise Database as a back end architecture. This database, which is currently only accessible to those on the UVM campus network, will shortly be migrated to a Linux server where it will be accessible for database connections over the Internet. Passwords can then be handed out to all interested researchers on the project, who will be able to make a database connection through the Geographic Information Systems software interface on their desktop computer. This database will include a very large number of thematic layers. Those layers are currently divided into biophysical, socio-economic and imagery categories. Biophysical includes data on topography, soils, forest cover, habitat areas, hydrology and toxics. Socio-economics includes political and administrative boundaries, transportation and infrastructure networks, property data, census data, household survey data, parks, protected areas, land use/land cover, zoning, public health and historic land use change. Imagery includes a variety of aerial and satellite imagery. See the readme: http://96.56.36.108/geodatabase_SAL/readme.txt See the file listing: http://96.56.36.108/geodatabase_SAL/diroutput.txt

Overview

Empower your location data visualizations with our edge-matched polygons, even in difficult geographies.

Our self-hosted geospatial data cover administrative and postal divisions with up to 5 precision levels. All levels follow a seamless hierarchical structure with no gaps or overlaps.

The geospatial data shapes are offered in high-precision and visualization resolution and are easily customized on-premise.

Use cases for the Global Administrative Boundaries Database (Geospatial data, Map data)

• In-depth spatial analysis

• Clustering

• Geofencing

• Reverse Geocoding

• Reporting and Business Intelligence (BI)

Product Features

• Coherence and precision at every level

• Edge-matched polygons

• High-precision shapes for spatial analysis

• Fast-loading polygons for reporting and BI

• Multi-language support

For additional insights, you can combine the map data with:

• Population data: Historical and future trends

• UNLOCODE and IATA codes

• Time zones and Daylight Saving Time (DST)

Data export methodology

Our location data packages are offered in variable formats, including - .shp - .gpkg - .kml - .shp - .gpkg - .kml - .geojson

All geospatial data are optimized for seamless integration with popular systems like Esri ArcGIS, Snowflake, QGIS, and more.

Why companies choose our map data

• Precision at every level

• Coverage of difficult geographies

• No gaps, nor overlaps

Note: Custom geospatial data packages are available. Please submit a request via the above contact button for more details.

Have you ever wanted to create your own maps, or integrate and visualize spatial datasets to examine changes in trends between locations and over time? Follow along with these training tutorials on QGIS, an open source geographic information system (GIS) and learn key concepts, procedures and skills for performing common GIS tasks – such as creating maps, as well as joining, overlaying and visualizing spatial datasets. These tutorials are geared towards new GIS users. We’ll start with foundational concepts, and build towards more advanced topics throughout – demonstrating how with a few relatively easy steps you can get quite a lot out of GIS. You can then extend these skills to datasets of thematic relevance to you in addressing tasks faced in your day-to-day work.

Geospatial Data Pack for Visualization 🗺️

Learn Geographic Mapping with Altair, Vega-Lite and Vega using Curated Datasets

Complete geographic and geophysical data collection for mapping and visualization. This consolidation includes 18 complementary datasets used by 31+ Vega, Vega-Lite, and Altair examples 📊. Perfect for learning geographic visualization techniques including projections, choropleths, point maps, vector fields, and interactive displays.

Source data lives on GitHub and can also be accessed via CDN. The vega-datasets project serves as a common repository for example datasets used across these visualization libraries and related projects.

Why Use This Dataset? 🤔

• Comprehensive Geospatial Types: Explore a variety of core geospatial data models:
  • Vector Data: Includes points (like airports.csv), lines (like londonTubeLines.json), and polygons (like us-10m.json).
  • Raster-like Data: Work with gridded datasets (like windvectors.csv, annual-precip.json).
• Diverse Formats: Gain experience with standard and efficient geospatial formats like GeoJSON (see Table 1, 2, 4), compressed TopoJSON (see Table 1), and plain CSV/TSV (see Table 2, 3, 4) for point data and attribute tables ready for joining.
• Multi-Scale Coverage: Practice visualization across different geographic scales, from global and national (Table 1, 4) down to the city level (Table 1).
• Rich Thematic Mapping: Includes multiple datasets (Table 3) specifically designed for joining attributes to geographic boundaries (like states or counties from Table 1) to create insightful choropleth maps.
• Ready-to-Use & Example-Driven: Cleaned datasets tightly integrated with 31+ official examples (see Appendix) from Altair, Vega-Lite, and Vega, allowing you to immediately practice techniques like projections, point maps, network maps, and interactive displays.
• Python Friendly: Works seamlessly with essential Python libraries like Altair (which can directly read TopoJSON/GeoJSON), Pandas, and GeoPandas, fitting perfectly into the Kaggle notebook environment.

Table of Contents

• Why Use This Dataset?
• Dataset Inventory
• Usage Guide
• Appendix: Geospatial Examples by Technique
• Licenses
• Sources
• Learning Resources

Dataset Inventory 🗂️

This pack includes 18 datasets covering base maps, reference points, statistical data for choropleths, and geophysical data.

1. BASE MAP BOUNDARIES (Topological Data)

2. GEOGRAPHIC REFERENCE POINTS (Point Data) 📍

The GDAL/OGR libraries are open-source, geo-spatial libraries that work with a wide range of raster and vector data sources. One of many impressive features of the GDAL/OGR libraries is the ViRTual (VRT) format. It is an XML format description of how to transform raster or vector data sources on the fly into a new dataset. The transformations include: mosaicking, re-projection, look-up table (raster), change data type (raster), and SQL SELECT command (vector). VRTs can be used by GDAL/OGR functions and utilities as if they were an original source, even allowing for chaining of functionality, for example: have a VRT mosaic hundreds of VRTs that use look-up tables to transform original GeoTiff files. We used the VRT format for the presentation of hydrologic model results, allowing for thousands of small VRT files representing all components of the monthly water balance to be transformations of a single land cover GeoTiff file.

Presentation at 2018 AWRA Spring Specialty Conference: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Water Resources X, Orlando, Florida, April 23-25, http://awra.org/meetings/Orlando2018/

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?

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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

Snapshot img

Geographic Information System Analytics Market Size 2024-2028

The geographic information system analytics market size is forecast to increase by USD 12 billion at a CAGR of 12.41% between 2023 and 2028.

The GIS Analytics Market analysis is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing need for efficient land management and emerging methods in data collection and generation. The defense industry's reliance on geospatial technology for situational awareness and real-time location monitoring is a major factor fueling market expansion. Additionally, the oil and gas industry's adoption of GIS for resource exploration and management is a key trend. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and smart city initiatives are also contributing to market growth, as they require multiple layered maps for effective planning and implementation. The Internet of Things (IoT) and Software as a Service (SaaS) are transforming GIS analytics by enabling real-time data processing and analysis.
Augmented reality is another emerging trend, as it enhances the user experience and provides valuable insights through visual overlays. Overall, heavy investments are required for setting up GIS stations and accessing data sources, making this a promising market for technology innovators and investors alike.

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

Request Free Sample

The geographic information system analytics market encompasses various industries, including government sectors, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Smart city projects, building information modeling, and infrastructure development are key areas driving market growth. Spatial data plays a crucial role in sectors such as transportation, mining, and oil and gas. Cloud technology is transforming GIS analytics by enabling real-time data access and analysis. Startups are disrupting traditional GIS markets with innovative location-based services and smart city planning solutions. Infrastructure development in sectors like construction and green buildings relies on modern GIS solutions for efficient planning and management. Smart utilities and telematics navigation are also leveraging GIS analytics for improved operational efficiency.
GIS technology is essential for zoning and land use management, enabling data-driven decision-making. Smart public works and urban planning projects utilize mapping and geospatial technology for effective implementation. Surveying is another sector that benefits from advanced GIS solutions. Overall, the GIS analytics market is evolving, with a focus on providing actionable insights to businesses and organizations.

How is this Geographic Information System Analytics Industry segmented?

The geographic information system analytics industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

End-user

  Retail and Real Estate
  Government
  Utilities
  Telecom
  Manufacturing and Automotive
  Agriculture
  Construction
  Mining
  Transportation
  Healthcare
  Defense and Intelligence
  Energy
  Education and Research
  BFSI


Components

  Software
  Services


Deployment Modes

  On-Premises
  Cloud-Based


Applications

  Urban and Regional Planning
  Disaster Management
  Environmental Monitoring Asset Management
  Surveying and Mapping
  Location-Based Services
  Geospatial Business Intelligence
  Natural Resource Management


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    South Korea


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World

By End-user Insights

The retail and real estate segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The GIS analytics market analysis is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for advanced technologies in various industries. In the retail sector, for instance, retailers are utilizing GIS analytics to gain a competitive edge by analyzing customer demographics and buying patterns through real-time location monitoring and multiple layered maps. The retail industry's success relies heavily on these insights for effective marketing strategies. Moreover, the defense industries are integrating GIS analytics into their operations for infrastructure development, permitting, and public safety. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 4D GIS software are increasingly being adopted for construction project workflows, while urban planning and designing require geospatial data for smart city planning and site selection.

The oil and gas industry is leveraging satellite imaging and IoT devices for land acquisition and mining operations. In the public sector, gover

This feature class is part of the Cadastral National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) CADNSDI publication data set for rectangular and non-rectangular Public Land Survey System (PLSS) data set. The metadata description in the Cadastral Reference System Feature Data Set more fully describes the entire data set. This feature class is the second division of the PLSS is quarter, quarter-quarter, sixteenth or government lot divisions of the PLSS. The second and third divisions are combined into this feature class as an intentional de-normalization of the PLSS hierarchical data. The polygons in this feature class represent the smallest division to the sixteenth that has been defined for the first division. For example In some cases sections have only been divided to the quarter. Divisions below the sixteenth are in the Special Survey or Parcel Feature Class.

Overview

Empower your location data visualizations with our edge-matched polygons, even in difficult geographies.

Our self-hosted GIS data cover administrative and postal divisions with up to 6 precision levels: a zip code layer and up to 5 administrative levels. All levels follow a seamless hierarchical structure with no gaps or overlaps.

The geospatial data shapes are offered in high-precision and visualization resolution and are easily customized on-premise.

Use cases for the Global Boundaries Database (GIS data, Geospatial data)

• In-depth spatial analysis

• Clustering

• Geofencing

• Reverse Geocoding

• Reporting and Business Intelligence (BI)

Product Features

• Coherence and precision at every level

• Edge-matched polygons

• High-precision shapes for spatial analysis

• Fast-loading polygons for reporting and BI

• Multi-language support

For additional insights, you can combine the GIS data with:

• Population data: Historical and future trends

• UNLOCODE and IATA codes

• Time zones and Daylight Saving Time (DST)

Data export methodology

Our geospatial data packages are offered in variable formats, including - .shp - .gpkg - .kml - .shp - .gpkg - .kml - .geojson

All GIS data are optimized for seamless integration with popular systems like Esri ArcGIS, Snowflake, QGIS, and more.

Why companies choose our map data

• Precision at every level

• Coverage of difficult geographies

• No gaps, nor overlaps

Note: Custom geospatial data packages are available. Please submit a request via the above contact button for more details.

The spearfish sample database is being distributed to provide users with a solid database on which to work for learning the tools of GRASS. This document provides some general information about the database and the map layers available. With the release of GRASS 4.1, the GRASS development staff is pleased to announce that the sample data set spearfish is also being distributed. The spearfish data set covers two topographic 1:24,000 quads in western South Dakota. The names of the quads are Spearfish and Deadwood North, SD. The area covered by the data set is in the vicinity of Spearfish, SD and includes a majority of the Black Hills National Forest (i.e., Mount Rushmore). It is anticipated that enough data layers will be provided to allow users to use nearly all of the GRASS tools on the spearfish data set. A majority of this spearfish database was initially provided to USACERL by the EROS Data Center (EDC) in Sioux Falls, SD. The GRASS Development staff expresses acknowledgement and thanks to: the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and EROS Data Center for allowing us to distribute this data with our release of GRASS software; and to the U.S. Census Bureau for their samples of TIGER/Line data and the STF1 data which were used in the development of the TIGER programs and tutorials. Thanks also to SPOT Image Corporation for providing multispectral and panchromatic satellite imagery for a portion of the spearfish data set and for allowing us to distribute this imagery with GRASS software. In addition to the data provided by the EDC and SPOT, researchers at USACERL have dev eloped several new layers, thus enhancing the spearfish data set. To use the spearfish data, when entering GRASS, enter spearfish as your choice for the current location.

This is the classical GRASS GIS dataset from 1993 covering a part of Spearfish, South Dakota, USA, with raster, vector and point data. The Spearfish data base covers two 7.5 minute topographic sheets in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota, USA. It is in the Universal Transverse Mercator Projection. It was originally created by Larry Batten while he was with the U. S. Geological Survey's EROS Data Center in South Dakota. The data base was enhanced by USA/CERL and cooperators.

A major objective of plant ecology research is to determine the underlying processes responsible for the observed spatial distribution patterns of plant species. Plants can be approximated as points in space for this purpose, and thus, spatial point pattern analysis has become increasingly popular in ecological research. The basic piece of data for point pattern analysis is a point location of an ecological object in some study region. Therefore, point pattern analysis can only be performed if data can be collected. However, due to the lack of a convenient sampling method, a few previous studies have used point pattern analysis to examine the spatial patterns of grassland species. This is unfortunate because being able to explore point patterns in grassland systems has widespread implications for population dynamics, community-level patterns and ecological processes. In this study, we develop a new method to measure individual coordinates of species in grassland communities. This method records plant growing positions via digital picture samples that have been sub-blocked within a geographical information system (GIS). Here, we tested out the new method by measuring the individual coordinates of Stipa grandis in grazed and ungrazed S. grandis communities in a temperate steppe ecosystem in China. Furthermore, we analyzed the pattern of S. grandis by using the pair correlation function g(r) with both a homogeneous Poisson process and a heterogeneous Poisson process. Our results showed that individuals of S. grandis were overdispersed according to the homogeneous Poisson process at 0-0.16 m in the ungrazed community, while they were clustered at 0.19 m according to the homogeneous and heterogeneous Poisson processes in the grazed community. These results suggest that competitive interactions dominated the ungrazed community, while facilitative interactions dominated the grazed community. In sum, we successfully executed a new sampling method, using digital photography and a Geographical Information System, to collect experimental data on the spatial point patterns for the populations in this grassland community.

Methods 1. Data collection using digital photographs and GIS

A flat 5 m x 5 m sampling block was chosen in a study grassland community and divided with bamboo chopsticks into 100 sub-blocks of 50 cm x 50 cm (Fig. 1). A digital camera was then mounted to a telescoping stake and positioned in the center of each sub-block to photograph vegetation within a 0.25 m2 area. Pictures were taken 1.75 m above the ground at an approximate downward angle of 90° (Fig. 2). Automatic camera settings were used for focus, lighting and shutter speed. After photographing the plot as a whole, photographs were taken of each individual plant in each sub-block. In order to identify each individual plant from the digital images, each plant was uniquely marked before the pictures were taken (Fig. 2 B).

Digital images were imported into a computer as JPEG files, and the position of each plant in the pictures was determined using GIS. This involved four steps: 1) A reference frame (Fig. 3) was established using R2V software to designate control points, or the four vertexes of each sub-block (Appendix S1), so that all plants in each sub-block were within the same reference frame. The parallax and optical distortion in the raster images was then geometrically corrected based on these selected control points; 2) Maps, or layers in GIS terminology, were set up for each species as PROJECT files (Appendix S2), and all individuals in each sub-block were digitized using R2V software (Appendix S3). For accuracy, the digitization of plant individual locations was performed manually; 3) Each plant species layer was exported from a PROJECT file to a SHAPE file in R2V software (Appendix S4); 4) Finally each species layer was opened in Arc GIS software in the SHAPE file format, and attribute data from each species layer was exported into Arc GIS to obtain the precise coordinates for each species. This last phase involved four steps of its own, from adding the data (Appendix S5), to opening the attribute table (Appendix S6), to adding new x and y coordinate fields (Appendix S7) and to obtaining the x and y coordinates and filling in the new fields (Appendix S8).

1. Data reliability assessment

To determine the accuracy of our new method, we measured the individual locations of Leymus chinensis, a perennial rhizome grass, in representative community blocks 5 m x 5 m in size in typical steppe habitat in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China in July 2010 (Fig. 4 A). As our standard for comparison, we used a ruler to measure the individual coordinates of L. chinensis. We tested for significant differences between (1) the coordinates of L. chinensis, as measured with our new method and with the ruler, and (2) the pair correlation function g of L. chinensis, as measured with our new method and with the ruler (see section 3.2 Data Analysis). If (1) the coordinates of L. chinensis, as measured with our new method and with the ruler, and (2) the pair correlation function g of L. chinensis, as measured with our new method and with the ruler, did not differ significantly, then we could conclude that our new method of measuring the coordinates of L. chinensis was reliable.

We compared the results using a t-test (Table 1). We found no significant differences in either (1) the coordinates of L. chinensis or (2) the pair correlation function g of L. chinensis. Further, we compared the pattern characteristics of L. chinensis when measured by our new method against the ruler measurements using a null model. We found that the two pattern characteristics of L. chinensis did not differ significantly based on the homogenous Poisson process or complete spatial randomness (Fig. 4 B). Thus, we concluded that the data obtained using our new method was reliable enough to perform point pattern analysis with a null model in grassland communities.

Geospatial Data Platform Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global geospatial data platform market size reached USD 108.5 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust expansion driven by digital transformation and increasing demand for location-based analytics. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 341.2 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth is attributed to the rising integration of geospatial technologies across sectors such as urban planning, disaster management, transportation, and agriculture, alongside ongoing advancements in cloud computing and artificial intelligence that are reshaping how spatial data is collected, processed, and utilized.

One of the primary growth factors fueling the geospatial data platform market is the escalating adoption of smart city initiatives globally. Urbanization has compelled governments and municipalities to seek innovative solutions for infrastructure management, resource allocation, and public safety, all of which heavily rely on real-time geospatial data. The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors has further enriched the data ecosystem, enabling more granular and actionable insights. As cities become more connected and data-driven, the need for robust geospatial platforms that can aggregate, analyze, and visualize complex datasets is becoming indispensable, driving both public and private sector investments in this technology.

Another significant driver is the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, which has heightened the reliance on geospatial data platforms for disaster management and mitigation. Accurate geospatial intelligence is critical for early warning systems, emergency response planning, and post-disaster recovery. Governments, humanitarian agencies, and insurance companies are leveraging these platforms to enhance situational awareness, optimize resource deployment, and minimize losses. The integration of satellite imagery, drone data, and advanced analytics within geospatial platforms enables rapid assessment of affected areas, improving the efficacy of relief operations and long-term resilience planning.

The expansion of the geospatial data platform market is also being propelled by the transformation of industries such as agriculture, utilities, and transportation. Precision agriculture, for example, utilizes spatial data to optimize crop yields, monitor soil health, and manage water resources efficiently. Utilities are adopting geospatial solutions for asset management, outage tracking, and network optimization, while the transportation and logistics sector is leveraging these platforms for route planning, fleet management, and supply chain visibility. The convergence of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics with geospatial data platforms is unlocking new levels of operational efficiency and strategic decision-making across these industries.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the geospatial data platform market due to its advanced technological infrastructure, strong presence of leading market players, and substantial government investments in geospatial intelligence. However, the Asia Pacific region is witnessing the fastest growth, driven by rapid urbanization, expanding infrastructure projects, and increasing adoption of geospatial technologies in emerging economies such as China and India. Europe remains a significant market, supported by regulatory mandates for spatial data sharing and the emphasis on sustainability and environmental monitoring. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also experiencing steady growth, albeit from a smaller base, as digital transformation initiatives gain momentum across diverse sectors.

The emergence of the Spatial Computing Platform is revolutionizing how geospatial data is processed and utilized. This platform integrates spatial computing with geospatial technologies, enabling more immersive and interactive data visualization. By leveraging augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), spatial computing platforms allow users to experience geospatial data in three dimensions, providing a deeper understanding of spatial relationships and patterns. This innovation is particularly beneficial in fields such as urban plannin

The files linked to this reference are the geospatial data created as part of the completion of the baseline vegetation inventory project for the NPS park unit. Current format is ArcGIS file geodatabase but older formats may exist as shapefiles. Using the National Vegetation Classification System (NVCS) developed by Natureserve, with additional classes and modifiers, overstory vegetation communities for each park were interpreted from stereo color infrared aerial photographs using manual interpretation methods. Using a minimum mapping unit of 0.5 hectares (MMU = 0.5 ha), polygons representing areas of relatively uniform vegetation were delineated and annotated on clear plastic overlays registered to the aerial photographs. Polygons were labeled according to the dominant vegetation community. Where the polygons were not uniform, second and third vegetation classes were added. Further, a number of modifier codes were employed to indicate important aspects of the polygon that could be interpreted from the photograph (for example, burn condition). The polygons on the plastic overlays were then corrected using photogrammetric procedures and converted to vector format for use in creating a geographic information system (GIS) database for each park. In addition, high resolution color orthophotographs were created from the original aerial photographs for use in the GIS. Upon completion of the GIS database (including vegetation, orthophotos and updated roads and hydrology layers), both hardcopy and softcopy maps were produced for delivery. Metadata for each database includes a description of the vegetation classification system used for each park, summary statistics and documentation of the sources, procedures and spatial accuracies of the data. At the time of this writing, an accuracy assessment of the vegetation mapping has not been performed for most of these parks.

MAPDAT is a program for plotting spatial data held in the ORACLE relational database onto any map within the Australian region at any scale. MAPDAT also includes a system for defining geological structures, thus any geological structure can be stored in the database and plotted.

The program enables the plotting of sample locations along with infomration specific to each location. The information can be displayed beside each point or in a list to the side of the map. The symbols can be sized proportionally to the value of a column in a table or a SQL expression. Town locations, survey paths, gridlines, survey areas, coastlines and other geographical lines can be plotted.

The program does not compete with geographical information systems but fills a niche at a much lower level of complexity. As a result of its simplicity a minimum in setting up of data is required and using the program is very straight forward with the user always aware of the database operations being performed.

Spatial Database Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global spatial database market size reached USD 2.94 billion in 2024, driven by the exponential growth in geospatial data generation and the increasing adoption of location-based services across industries. The market is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 12.1% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 8.23 billion by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily fueled by advancements in spatial analytics, the proliferation of IoT devices, and the rising demand for real-time geographic information systems (GIS) in both public and private sectors.

One of the primary growth factors for the spatial database market is the surging demand for advanced geospatial analytics in urban planning and smart city initiatives. As cities across the globe embrace digital transformation, there is an increasing need for sophisticated spatial databases capable of handling complex, multi-dimensional datasets. These databases enable city planners and government agencies to analyze spatial relationships, optimize resource allocation, and improve decision-making processes. The integration of spatial databases with AI and machine learning algorithms further enhances their analytical capabilities, allowing for predictive modeling and real-time visualization of urban dynamics. This has accelerated the adoption of spatial database solutions in both developed and emerging economies, positioning the market for sustained growth over the next decade.

Another significant driver is the rapid expansion of IoT and connected devices, which generate vast volumes of location-based data requiring efficient management and analysis. Industries such as transportation, logistics, and utilities are leveraging spatial databases to track assets, optimize routes, and monitor infrastructure in real time. The ability to process and analyze geospatial data streams from sensors, vehicles, and mobile devices is critical for operational efficiency and risk mitigation. Moreover, the increasing use of spatial databases in environmental monitoring—such as tracking climate change, natural disasters, and resource management—underscores their importance in supporting sustainability initiatives. This trend is further amplified by the growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making across sectors, fueling the demand for scalable and high-performance spatial database solutions.

The adoption of cloud-based spatial database solutions is another pivotal factor contributing to market growth. Cloud deployment offers unparalleled scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, enabling organizations of all sizes to access and manage spatial data without significant upfront investments in infrastructure. The shift towards cloud-native architectures also facilitates seamless integration with other enterprise applications and data sources, enhancing interoperability and data sharing. This has led to a surge in demand for spatial database-as-a-service (DBaaS) offerings, particularly among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and organizations with distributed operations. The ongoing advancements in cloud security and data privacy are further encouraging the migration of critical geospatial workloads to the cloud, accelerating the overall expansion of the spatial database market.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the spatial database market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The region's leadership is attributed to the presence of major technology players, a mature IT infrastructure, and significant investments in smart city and defense projects. However, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing market, driven by rapid urbanization, government-led digitalization initiatives, and the increasing adoption of advanced GIS technologies in countries such as China, India, and Japan. The region's robust economic growth and expanding industrial base are expected to create substantial opportunities for spatial database vendors, making it a key focus area for future market expansion.