Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is exactly what its name suggests, a geographic method for organizing information in a system. GIS is the digital version of the field of geography, a field comprised of environmental, societal, and economic factors, and uses a geographic approach that brings together problem solving and integration by layering maps to visualize trends and design solutions. Wholistic, integrated, connected, collaborative, inclusive—these five works are embodied in the geographic approach, one that is a natural way of thinking for planners whose work is grounded in location.

We spoke in this episode to Jack Dangermond, co-founder of ESRI, a global market leader in GIS and location intelligence. We wrapped up our conversation with a call to action where he said planners “are very important. You possess the skills and methods that are so important today. And only you it seems to me have the insight and ability to create solutions to address the great challenges we’re facing today as a global society. And for whatever reason you want to make up you are privileged and are being called upon at this particular moment in history to address the great issues of our time…” Listen to the full episode to hear the rest of the conversation with Jack on the world of GIS and the role planners have to play in the field.

Resources:

• High School Students Using GIS Case Study: https://www.esri.com/en-us/lg/industry/education/high-school-students-learn-stem-skills-with-gis
• L.A. High School Maptivists Research Social Justice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h50hlfnBjzk

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