Getting started

This section contains general information about Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping that will help you understand what they are and how online mapping might best work for you.

General questions about GIS and online mapping:


What is GIS?

GIS is most commonly referred to as a mapping software. This software is robust and can ingest many different data types. The ultimate goal in using a GIS is to map and analyze your data based on its spatial relationship with itself and other data. GIS is being used effectively in many departments at the University of Delaware. More about GIS...


What is online mapping?

Online mapping basically allows users to publish dynamic maps on the web for public use. The functionality of tools that interact with the underlying data in the map can vary. Recently, online mapping has become very popular, especially with the advent of Google Maps. While Google Maps is more of an atlas, there are other online mapping software packages that allows users to perform simple analyses, with basic capabilities similar to those of desktop GIS software. Visit the Examples page to see a variety of applications. More about online mapping...


What is the difference between GIS and online mapping?

The gap between GIS and online mapping has narrowed in recent years but there are still some significant differences between GIS and online mapping. A typical GIS is a robust program that is capable of complex tasks, such as data conversion, database schema management, geographic analysis and modeling, statistical analysis, 2D and 3D visualization, metadata management, and hard-copy map production. Some GIS programs are free, but most are relatively expensive and they are generally installed for individual use on a single computer.

Online mapping can be viewed as small subset of a GIS. Usually, online mapping sites are good for 2D visualization, basic query and feature identification, and data conversion and download. Although these sites are limited in functionality, they are often web-based and the user does not have to install any software.


What type of support does RDMS provide?

Research & Data Management Services (RDMS) provides technical and general consulting support to the UD community on both GIS and Internet mapping. This includes tasks such as data collection or data conversion. We also support many of the IT issues that are required in online mapping, such as hardware and software configuration, connectivity, and web development.


Can I create or build my own online mapping site?

Yes! RDMS can help you get an online mapping site up and running fairly quickly. To help you along, RDMS has developed sample web site templates you can modify. If you desire, we will help you build all of the components that go into building a online mapping site from our templates.



Questions? Comments?

If you have any questions about this site or simply don't know where to start, please contact us at rdms-info@udel.edu or call 831-DATA.