Using GIS

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a computer-based methodology for collecting, managing, analyzing, modeling, and presenting geographic or spatial data. An overview of GIS is presented in Geographic Information Systems as an Integrating Technology: Context, Concepts, and Definitions, offered by the Geographer's Craft Project, University of Colorado. Additional information about GIS and its applications is available from the U.S. Geological Survey and from ESRI—a GIS software vendor—and the GIS Lounge.

The University of Arkansas Libraries Maps and GIS Web page links to a variety of spatial data resources, including GeoStor, the statewide spatial data warehouse for Arkansas. The Web page also provides links to information about training opportunities in the use of ArcGIS software. One GIS workstation is available for public use in Mullins Library, in the reference area on the lobby level (level 2).

The Web-based GIS resources are available for use on any computer equipped with GIS software. To use the GIS workstation in Mullins Library, a reference staff member will log the user onto the computer. Use of the GIS workstation is limited to 2 hours at a time; if no others are waiting, the initial 2-hour time slot may be extended.

The ESRI ArcGIS software on this computer is available for research and instructional use only by current UA students, faculty and staff.  Non-educational (i.e., commercial) use is prohibited by our academic site license. Assistance with GIS is available by the Geosciences Librarian and the GIS graduate assistant, with an appointment; they will not produce customized products for individual users.

Before using the GIS workstation, users must be able to operate a PC, use Windows XP operating systems, and have experience using GIS programs. Users may teach themselves ArcGIS using the self-instruction modules available through ESRI's Virtual Campus (usually 20 to 40 hours to complete), or by enrolling in a GIS class offered through an academic department at the University.

GIS Consultation - Evaluate GIS as a suitable tool for solving your research problem; assist in identifying, selecting, and accessing spatial data, and/or to demonstrate the technical setting of the GIS Workstation (drives, access, file structures, data output options). The GIS staff is available to demonstrate the general functionality of GIS, and some of the possible ways in which GIS can be used. Schedule an appointment with the GIS staff at GISrefer@uark.edu. Requests for on-demand map production will not be taken.

GIS Technical Support - Technical support staff will attempt to fix software and hardware problems, diagnose the cause of error messages, assist with compressing, downloading, and managing files, and resolve general computer problems on the GIS workstation.  Report a problem to GIS staff at GISrefer@uark.edu.