Member-only story

Getting to Know Web GIS: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Neil Gaiman

·11.8k Followers· Follow

Published in Getting To Know Web GIS

5 min read

1.3k View Claps

83 Respond

Save

Listen

What is Web GIS?

Web GIS is a type of geographic information system (GIS) that is accessible through a web browser. This means that you can use Web GIS to create and share interactive maps without having to install any software.

Getting to Know Web GIS

by Pinde Fu

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	51574 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	504 pages

Web GIS is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

* Visualizing spatial data * Analyzing spatial data * Sharing spatial data with others * Creating web mapping applications

How Does Web GIS Work?

Web GIS works by using a combination of web mapping technologies, including:

* HTML and CSS: These technologies are used to create the visual interface of the map. * JavaScript: This technology is used to add interactivity to the map. * GIS software: This software is used to manage and analyze the spatial data.

When you use a Web GIS application, your web browser sends a request to the GIS server. The GIS server then processes the request and returns a map image to your browser. The map image is then displayed in your browser window.

Benefits of Using Web GIS

There are many benefits to using Web GIS, including:

* Accessibility: Web GIS is accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This means that you can share your maps with a wide audience, even if they don't have any GIS software installed. * Interactivity: Web GIS maps are interactive, which means that users can zoom, pan, and click on features to learn more about them. This makes it easy for users to explore your maps and find the information they are looking for. * Collaboration: Web GIS allows you to collaborate with others on your maps. This means that you can share your maps with others and work together to create more complex and informative maps.

Getting Started with Web GIS

If you are interested in getting started with Web GIS, there are a few things you need to do:

1. Choose a Web GIS platform: There are several different Web GIS platforms available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular platforms include ArcGIS Online, QGIS Server, and GeoServer. 2. Create a map: Once you have chosen a Web GIS platform, you can start creating your map. You can either create a new map from scratch or import an existing map from a file. 3. Add data to your map: You can add data to your map from a variety of sources, including shapefiles, databases, and web services. 4. Style your map: You can style your map to make it more visually appealing and easier to read. You can change the colors, symbols, and labels on your map. 5. Publish your map: Once you are finished creating your map, you can publish it so that others can view it. You can publish your map to a web server or to a social media site.

Web GIS is a powerful tool that can be used to create and share interactive maps. This guide has provided you with a basic overview of Web GIS. If you are interested in learning more about Web GIS, there are a number of resources available online. You can also find training courses and workshops offered by GIS software vendors and educational institutions.

By using Web GIS, you can create maps that are informative, engaging, and easy to share. Web GIS is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to communicate spatial information.

Getting to Know Web GIS

by Pinde Fu

4.4 out of 5