a geographic database that contains information about the distribution of physical and human characteristics of places or areas. In order to test hypotheses, maps of one characteristic or a combination can be produced from the database to analyze the data relationships.

systems, linked to databases, specifically designed for graphically displaying geographical information

A geographical information system ( GIS) merges information in a computer database with spatial coordinates on a digital map.

Software designed to coordinate data gathered at various times and locations into an overall topographical map. This program allows integration of a variety of data to form a detailed picture of a given point in the field. As an example, grid soil test data, soil type, and past yield information can be combined to determine a map to vary the planting rate.

A collection of graphic and attribute data relating to the earth's surface, computer hardware and software, which are used to perform queries of the data and to create thematic maps.

GIS allows for the analysis and visualisation of data with a spatial context. Further information.