​How is GIS used?

Private Sector Applications
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GIS is being used in many different industries, from farmers to roofers.  Below are descriptions of geospatial applications  which provide ample return on investment.   Many private sector needs are met using the  government  GIS  websites  provided by cities, counties and state  and  federal agencies.   
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​​Below are many examples of the application of GIS in the private sector.

Farming and Agriculture

Precision agriculture has been made possible by combining the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These technologies enable the coupling of real-time data collection with accurate position information.

Precision soil sampling, data collection, and data analysis, enable localized variation of chemical applications and planting density to suit specific areas of the field.
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Accurate field navigation minimizes redundant applications and skipped areas, and enables maximum ground coverage in the shortest possible time.

      - Crop health analysis
      - Precision agriculture
      - Yield estimation
      - Compliance mapping

To read more about GIS solutions for agriculture click on the graphic below:

Transportation​ / Supply Chain

GIS within trucking and transportation is taking on an ever increasing and valued role. Beyond the Cab  Color Screen GPS for trucks with real time traffic and accident reporting, there is also automated detour routing designed for trucks.    GIS is also very helpful to route planning  and for dispatchers. Being able to visually see geographically where the  trucks  are located in real time helps immensely with planning and dynamic route changes based upon  near-real time conditions.

​      - transportation safety analysis
      - travel demand analysis
      - traffic monitoring
      - intelligent transportation systems (ITS)
      - routing and scheduling
      - vehicle tracking and dispatching 

Learn more here.
Real Estate
GIS makes performing market analysis better and   gives the realtor and the seller the ability  to showcase a property’s characteristics and advantages with respect to its location. For example, analysis detailing the shortest-path from a property to a workplace, school, or shopping area can be a large factor for a prospective buyer when weighing the asking price of a house. Plus, the ability to see a property overlaid by school districts, aerial photography, shopping access, and utility services gives the buyer an immediate sense of place for their possible new home.    Read more  about GIS and real estate here.

Insurance

Insurance companies use GIS to analyze plan risk exposure clients. Understanding the location of customers before and after an event gives more proactive customer service and can help detect fraud based upon damage assessment information and the location of the customer. Read more ​here.