GIS Level 1: Introduction

to GIS & Mapping 1

Courtesy of US Air Force. Image is in the public domain.

 Outline
• Introduction – What is GIS?
• Software options
• Applications
• Understanding Maps & Data
• Data Layers
• Spatial Data Types
• Characteristics of Spatial Data
• Metadata
• Making Great Maps – Data Visualization Principles
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INTRODUCTION

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Geographic Information System

“A system for
capturing, storing, checking, integrating,
manipulating, analyzing and displaying
spatial data”

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Geographic Information System

“A system for
capturing, storing, checking, integrating,
manipulating, analyzing and displaying
spatial data”

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 Input: spatial data

GIS/Mapping Software:
analysis and data Does not its
with
visualization e
com n data
w o

Output: new data and maps

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 Theoretical Overview
GIS recreates real world spatial data

as digitized themed data “layers”

(e.g. boundaries, socioeconomic, hydrology,
infrastructure, transportation, land use/cover)

assembled in any combination

and overlaid for analysis

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 Theoretical Overview
GIS recreates real world spatial data

as digitized themed data “layers”

(e.g. locations, boundaries, infrastructure,
socioeconomic hydrology, land use/cover)

assembled in any combination

and overlaid for analysis

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 Theoretical Overview
GIS recreates real world spatial data

as digitized themed data “layers”

(e.g. locations, boundaries, infrastructure,
socioeconomic hydrology, land use/cover)

assembled in any combination

and overlaid for analysis

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excluded from our Creative Commons license. For more
information, see https://ocw.mit.edu/help/faq-fair-use/ 9
 Theoretical Overview
GIS recreates real world spatial data

as digitized themed data “layers”

(e.g. locations, boundaries, infrastructure,
socioeconomic hydrology, land use/cover)

assembled in any combination

and overlaid for analysis

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SOFTWARE

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Types of GIS & Mapping Software
Type Analysis Power Example(s)

Geobrowser Weak Google Maps, Google Earth,

(mainly only to display data) Apple Maps, Waze, etc.

Medium
(able to upload additional Carto, ArcGIS Online, Mapbox,
Web-based Google MyMaps, etc.
data, customize display, and
perform basic analyses)
Strong
(installed locally, provides full ArcGIS Pro
Desktop QGIS
control of map creation, and
perform advanced analyses)

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 Which desktop software should you use today?

ArcGIS Pro (by ESRI) QGIS

• Commercial software (expensive • Free, open-source tool
to purchase) • Runs on any operating system
• Only runs on Windows • Smaller program that will not
• Larger program – can run slowly affect performance of your
on some computers computer
• Full set of GIS functions and tools • Many available tools, but lacking
• Integration with ArcGIS Online some for specific functions, such
• Fully developed training program as network analysis (i.e. routing)
(online modules, written and spatial statistics
tutorials, MOOCs) • Basic tutorials by QGIS developers
• Comprehensive support (direct and users
support from ESRI, • Tools can be developed by anyone
documentation for every tool) so performance and
documentation is inconsistent.
• Support via forums
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GIS APPLICATIONS

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 View Imagery

Check out our workshops

on Remote Sensing &
Imagery

City of Cambridge Aerial Photograph, April 2010

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 Create 3D models

We have additional
3D software: AutoCAD,
Rhino, PhotoScan, etc.

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 Create Maps
ps
Ma ine
b
com cience
rt &s
a

Courtesy of US Census. Image is in the public domain. 17

 Conduct Analyses
Analyze values
(Spatial Statistics)

Learn these tools and more

in our GIS Level 2 workshop
Create data
(Buffer tool)

Edit geometry
(Clip tool)

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UNDERSTANDING MAPS & DATA
You may have been looking at geospatial data for a long time

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 Understanding data ‘layers’
What individual data layers were used to create this map?

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 Understanding data ‘layers’
What individual data layers were used to create this map?

T stops with label

Points of
interest

Street network

Bodies of water
Parks and other open space
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MAPS & DATA:
SPATIAL DATA TYPES
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 Geospatial Data Types

Geospatial or coordinate data can

be represented in two different
data formats:

Vector:
e.g. points, lines, and polygons

Raster:
e.g. row and column matrix
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 Data Types: Vector versus Raster
Vectors are composed of Raster's are composed of pixels
coordinates

These are often used for variables with:

defined borders, e.g. manmade continuous surface, e.g. environmental
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 Data Types: Vector examples
Points Lines Polygons (Combined)

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 Data Types: Vector mapping
Vectors have a frontend geometry
• In this example the geometry
represents state polygons

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 Data Types: Vector mapping
Vectors have a backend database,
normally called an ‘attribute table’
• rows represent
unique geometries
(e.g. state polygons)
• columns represent
a number of variables
(theoretically infinite)
• Here each row (state) is
symbolized by ‘NAME’
(categorical variable)

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 Data Types: Vector mapping
Vectors have a backend database,
normally called an ‘attribute table’
• Here each state is
being symbolized by
‘NAME’
(qualitative variable)

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 Data Types: Vector mapping
Vectors have a backend database,
normally called an ‘attribute table’
• Here each state is
being symbolized by
‘POP_PER_SQMI’
(quantitative variable)

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 Data Types: Vector file formats
• The shapefile is the most common vector file
format.
• “A” shapefile is actually a collection of several
different files with different extensions.

Shapefile =
When adding files to
Make sure to keep all
ArcGIS Pro, you will .shp .shx .sbx files together when
only see one file, not
moving.
every extension. .dbf .prj
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 Data Types: Raster
Raster data includes aerial photographs, digital
elevation models, and scanned maps.

(Remember these are constructed from pixels)

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 Data Types: Raster mapping
Raster data have a frontend cell matrix
• Where each cell has its own value
• A raster can only symbolize one
variable at a time

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 Data Types: Raster mapping
Raster data have a frontend cell matrix
• Here each cell/pixel is being
symbolized by elevation value

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 Data Types: Raster mapping
Raster data have a backend database,
normally called an ‘attribute table’
• rows represent unique values
(1m, 2m, 3m, etc.)
• columns have
specific variables
1) unique ‘ROW ID’
2) unique ‘VALUE’
3) ‘COUNT’ of pixels
with that ‘VALUE’

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 Data Types: Raster file formats
There are many different raster file extensions,
including common image formats.

.tiff .asc .img .jpg

Learn more about raster Some formats may include a

formats in this ArcGIS Pro collection of files with different
documentation. QGIS supports extensions, similar to a
similar formats. shapefile.

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 Data Types: Tabular
Tabular data can be transformed
into spatial data in two ways:
1. Joining
– Use a shared unique identifier (GEOID, name, etc.) to
match up tabular data to the spatial data’s attribute table.
2. Geocoding
– Use lat/lon coordinates in table to plot as points on map
– Use addresses to plot locations based on a street network
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 Data Types: Tabular file formats
GIS software can read commonly used tabular formats in
order to transform them into spatial data.

.csv .xlsx .dbf

Shapefiles include a
.dbf, which is a
tabular format that
can be opened in
QGIS cannot read Excel file other software, like
formats. Excel.

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 Geodatabases
• ESRI/ArcGIS storage system
• a collection of geographic datasets of
various types held in a common file
system folder
• Advantages: larger files size limits,
faster processing time when using
analysis tools
• Disadvantages: can only be opened
in ESRI software
• Learn more about using
geodatabases in Pro.
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 Other data formats
GIS can import and convert data produced in other formats:
• KML / KMZ files (Google Earth)
• DXF / DWG (CAD)
• NetCDF (scientific data)
• LAS (Lidar)
• GPX (GPS units)
• Geojson
GIS software can export many formats:
• Adobe Illustrator
• KML
• CAD The GIS & Data Lab has
• TIF many types of data
• JPG visualization software.
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 Common Associated Workflows
Satellite
Remote Sensing • Processed imagery as rasters or vectors
(e.g. enhancements, classifications)
3D Modeling & • Raw Imagery for basemaps
Photogrammetry • Processed imagery as rasters or models
(e.g. orthophotos, DEMS, 3D models) GIS

Statistical
Analysis • Attribute tables for running analyses,
(e.g. regressions, predictions)
Visual Design
(e.g. Illustrator) • Maps for improved design aesthetics

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 Exercise 1
• Goals:
– Become familiar with the GIS interface
– Learn how to add data
– Explore data types & attributes
• Complete either the QGIS or ArcGIS Pro
exercise from your workshop folder.

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MAPS & DATA:
CHARACTERISTICS OF SPATIAL DATA

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 Generalization

• The most detailed data available • e.g. resolution of coastline data

is not suitable for all purposes for this map is scale dependent
(or often a manageable file size) – Red: county map
– Blue: town map
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 Abstraction
The process of reducing data from its complete state to
what is necessary for use and presentation

Quiz: Which data symbology (pictured above)

would you select for each of the following maps?
– Land use study of adjacent property
– Development map of the airport
– National map of airports 44
 Spatial Resolution/Scale

Suitable data geometry is dependent on scale:

e.g. roads are polygons at local scale but lines at national scale 45
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 Temporal Resolution
1977 to 2006

Keep in mind temporal resolution when obtaining data

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 Searching for Spatial Data
Gre
• Look in general GIS data repositories bac at s
k to lide
wh to r
• Search the internet a p en s efer
roj t
– Include “gis”, or “data” in the search terms ect arting

– Search by location and/or topic

• Search for country statistical agencies or open data
sites (large cities often have their own open data
portals as well)
• Contact GIS departments, universities, or researchers
in your area of interest.
• Search for articles on your topic and look for the
sources of the data.
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 Repositories and Websites
Fin
d
Libguides.mit.edu/gis on man
ou r y m
– Can also find by googling ‘MIT GIS’, first result we ore
bsi
t
– Click on Find Data Tab for a list of resources, including e.
an assembled links of common data sources per topic.
Geodata.mit.edu (Geoweb)
– Includes data licensed freely or restricted to MIT and
other institutions, plus CDs and DVDs in the GIS lab.
– MIT instance is mainly historical-local or purchased data.
OpenStreetMap.org
– Crowd-sourced maps; content will vary by location
– Download as a shapefile via http://www.geofabrik.de/
– Best source to start for rural international data.
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MAPS & DATA:
METADATA
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What is Metadata?
Use metadata to learn
how and why the data
were created, access
restrictions, columns in
the attribute table, and
much more!

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 Metadata Examples
1. MassGIS:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massgis-data-
marine-beaches
2. GeoWeb: geodata.mit.edu/catalog/mit-
w37ehgh6nvl4w
3. City of Boston:
https://data.boston.gov/dataset/traffic-
signals
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MAKING GREAT MAPS:
DATA VISUALIZATION PRINCIPLES
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 Making Great Maps
• Cartography is the art and science of making maps
• Maps are always simplifications of reality, which makes
them helpful when making decisions or explaining patterns
• Maps are designed by people (who have intentions),
so we have to create them responsibly

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 Making Great Maps

From: Making Maps: A Visual Guide to Map Design for GIS by John Krygier and Denis Wood

Example of how a map can be used to prove many different points.

However in the past only those in power had the software and data to do so.
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Three Key Questions
1. Who wants the map?
– e.g. experts (detailed), students (contextual), the community (interactive)
2. Where will it be seen?
– e.g. 8x11 paper (static small, room for main points)
– e.g. 30x40 poster board (static large, room for detail)
– e.g. web map (interactive, users control navigation of map)
3. What is it’s purpose?
– e.g. to show a variable through time (time series)
– e.g. to show change over time (change detection)
– e.g. to combine multiple variable into an index to pick best/worst
(sustainability/risk/vulnerability mapping, site selection)
Each question deserves a well-thought answer before mapping

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 Map Design Process

Figure 5.3

Start with assembling the

data from multiple sources

Next choose the data,

analyses, & symbolization

Lastly insert the title, legend,

north arrow, scale bar, & labels
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 Vector Symbolization

From: Making Maps: A Visual Guide to Map Design for GIS by John Krygier and Denis Wood - makingmaps.owu.edu

See our tutorial for additional Colorbrewer provides

“Cartography Tips”. accessible color options.
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Raster Symbolization

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 Choosing Color Tips
Match the type of data to the type of color scheme:

• Qualitative (categories)

• Quantitative (numbers)

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 Qualitative Color Example

Does this
make sense
for the data?

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 Sequential Color Example

Does this
make sense
for the data?

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 Diverging Color Example

Does this
make sense
for the data?

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Commonly used map type: Choropleth
These use different shading and coloring to display
the quantity or value in defined areas.

© Alyson Hurt and Katie Park/NPR.

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 Choropleth map choices
1. Number of Classes 2. Classification Method
• Aggregates data for display • Data classification is how
• More classes = more variation data is arranged into
(best to have no more than 7) separate classes.
• Major types
– Equal Intervals
– Quantile (Equal Count)
– Natural Breaks
– Defined Intervals

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 Classification Methods
• Equal Interval = classes have equal ranges
• Quantile = classes have equal counts
• Natural Breaks = optimizes class variation
• Manual = you define classes

Note: each has pros/cons to their usage,

for “Choropleth Classification Methods” use this link:
https://libguides.mit.edu/gis/tutorials#s-lg-box-
wrapper-4119325
65
2020 % population over 65

Natural
breaks

Quantile

Equal
interval

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 Exercise 2
• Goal:
– Learn how to symbolize different types of data
• Complete Exercise 2 for either QGIS or ArcGIS
Pro.

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 Map Layout Design Example
Overview:
• Map layout design is about
developing a balanced arrangement
• Maps, title, legend, scale bar, labels,
etc. all need relative positioning & sizing
• Goal is to design the map layout to
support your design questions
• Who wants the map
• Where will it be seen
• What is its purpose
From: Designing Better Maps: A Guide for GIS Users by Cynthia A. Brewer

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 Map Layout Design Example
Tips:
• Inset/locator maps are often placed in the
top/bottom corners (e.g. continent view
top left and zoomed view in bottom
right).
• Main map often placed in center (usually
largest & most detailed).
• Legend is tucked into the main map for easy
comparison with the data.
• Scale bars and north arrows shouldn’t be a
distraction from the main map.
• Sources should run along the bottom.
From: Designing Better Maps: A Guide for GIS Users by Cynthia A. Brewer

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TAKE-HOME EXERCISE

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 Exercise Overview
Query and use unemployment and transportation
data to create a map that helps you decide where
to build a mixed use facility.
1. Navigate the software interface
2. Find and add data, including basemaps
3. Access and explore attribute information
4. Symbolize data layers, for vector and raster
5. Select data by attributes and spatial location
6. Design a simple map for export
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Boburg, S. (2017, May 31). How Jared Kushner built a luxury skyscraper using loans meant for job-starved areas. Washington Post. Retrieved from

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