Components of GIS| Practical Work in Geography Class 12

In this article, we will delve deep into the topic of "Components of GIS" from the NCERT Class 12 Practical Work Geography book. These notes are specially curated by an expert team at GeeksforGeeks for all the students.

Components of GIS

A Geographical Information System (GIS) consists of several important parts:

1. Hardware: This includes the physical equipment like computers, screens, and input devices used to process, store, display, and interact with GIS data.
2. Software: The software is the programs and applications used to manage GIS data. It includes tools for entering, editing, analyzing, and displaying data.
3. Data: GIS relies on both spatial data (like maps) and tabular data (like databases). This data can come from various sources and is essential for GIS operations.
4. People: People from various backgrounds, such as engineers, scientists, policymakers, and agencies, use GIS to solve problems and make decisions. They are crucial for interpreting and utilizing GIS data effectively.
5. Procedures: These are the steps and methods used to handle GIS data. Procedures dictate how data is retrieved, inputted, stored, managed, analyzed, and presented in the final output. They ensure consistency and accuracy in GIS operations.

Components of GIS: Short Notes

The important components of a Geographical Information System include the following:

• Hardware: Hardware is the computer on which a GIS operates. Today, GIS software runs on a wide range of hardware types, from centralized computer servers to desktop computers used in stand-alone or networked configurations.
  
• Software: GIS software provides the functions and tools needed to store, analyze, and display geographic information. Key software components are:
  1. Tools for the input and manipulation of geographic information
  2. A database management system (DBMS)
  3. Tools that support geographic query, analysis, and visualization
  4. A graphical user interface (GUI) for easy access to tools
  
• Data: Possibly the most important component of a GIS is the data. Geographic data and related tabular data can be collected in-house or purchased from a commercial data provider. A GIS will integrate spatial data with other data resources and can even use a DBMS, used by most organizations to organize and maintain their data, to manage spatial data.
  
• People: GIS technology is of limited value without the people who manage the system and develop plans for applying it to real world problems. GIS users range from technical specialists who design and maintain the system to those who use it to help them perform their everyday work.
  
• Methods: A successful GIS operates according to a well-designed plan and business rules, which are the models and operating practices unique to each organization.

Conclusion - Practical Work in Geography Class 12 Components of GIS

In conclusion, this article has provided an insightful exploration of the "Components of GIS" as outlined in the NCERT Class 12 Practical Work Geography book. These meticulously curated notes by GeeksforGeeks aim to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the integral parts that constitute a Geographical Information System. Highlighting key components such as hardware, software, data, people, and procedures, the article underscores the multifaceted nature of GIS and its essential role in modern geographic analysis and decision-making processes.

Related Articles:

• Spatial and Geographical data
• Spatial Data Types and Models
• Geographical information system (GIS) and its Components
• Chapter 6: Introduction to Remote Sensing| Class 11 Geography Practical Work