Businesses need to utilize data to stay ahead of the competition. With access to innovative tools, optimizing strategies is easier than ever. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a game-changing technology that is increasingly becoming a part of businesses' day-to-day operations.

The evolution of enterprise GIS has streamlined many industries, from small businesses to governments. Unorganised expansion often results in a proliferation of systems, which creates interoperability and compatibility issues.

Enterprise GIS is the solution to such difficulties, as it can transform any business. However, how exactly does Enterprise GIS help? Let’s break it down to understand the importance of enterprise GIS. We will have a look at the evolution of GIS and some ways in which it can benefit businesses.

The Evolution of GIS Technology

GIS has evolved from a basic tool to a contemporary, powerful platform for understanding and interpreting information. Here is a brief history of GIS.

1. Introduction to Enterprise GIS

Computer mapping was still in its infancy; until 1960, all mapping was done on paper. In 1960, Roger Tomlinson, known as the father of GIS, initiated, planned, and developed the Canada Geographic Information System, which resulted in the world's first computerized GIS in 1963.

2. Evolution in 1965

Early features of GIS and its applications were developed at a lab by a talented team of geographers, planners, computer scientists, and other professionals. Between 1960 and 1965, map visuals were printed online, while breakthroughs in data storage were made with mainframe computers.

3. Evolution in 1981

By 1981, GIS had gone commercial, and as processing power increased, Esri, one of the largest consulting firms recognized for computer mapping and spatial analysis, upgraded its software tools. Working on projects that addressed real-world issues helped the organization to innovate and create sophisticated GIS tools and methodologies that could be used further. The academic community recognized Esri's work as a novel spatial analysis and planning approach. Esri created ARC/INFO, the first commercial GIS product. The technology was released in 1981, marking the beginning of Esri's transition as a software corporation.

4. Evolution Till Today

To date, people have begun to embrace GIS technology in various ways. Classrooms, organizations, and governments worldwide are beginning to use digital mapping and analysis. We are progressively transitioning to an era of open-source GIS software, and the value of spatial analysis for decision-making is becoming apparent. Software businesses such as Esri offer solutions to almost any spatial challenge.

Conclusion

The Evolution to Enterprise GIS is a game changer for numerous sectors. Initially, it was employed in certain departments for limited tasks, but later innovations such as cloud computing and data analytics expanded its reach. Nowadays, GIS assists organizations with data integration, decision-making, and spatial analysis on a worldwide scale.
GIS will be critical in addressing global concerns, becoming an ever more valuable asset in company strategies. SBL provides Enterprise GIS solutions to improve decision-making and operational efficiency across a variety of sectors. Contact us to learn more about Enterprise GIS Development.