The Development of the First Computer-Based Geographic Information System (GIS)

Introduction

The concept of geographic information systems (GIS) has been around for centuries, with early cartographers using maps to represent geographic data. However, the development of the first computer-based GIS is a more recent phenomenon, dating back to the 1960s. This article will explore the early development of GIS and the key milestones that led to the creation of the first computer-based GIS.

The Early Years: 1960s-1970s

In the 1960s, the US Department of Defense’s Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) funded a project to develop a system that could store and manipulate geographic data. This project, known as the “Geographic Information System” (GIS), was led by Douglas Adams and was one of the first attempts to create a computer-based GIS. The early GIS systems were primarily used for military applications, such as mapping and navigation.

The Birth of the First Computer-Based GIS: 1970s-1980s

In the 1970s, the development of computer hardware and software led to the creation of the first commercial GIS software. One of the earliest commercial GIS software was the “MapInfo” system, developed by MapInfo Corporation in 1978. This system was designed for use in a variety of industries, including transportation, urban planning, and environmental management.

Key Milestones: 1980s-1990s

The 1980s saw significant advancements in GIS technology, including the development of spatial databases and the introduction of graphical user interfaces (GUIs). In 1987, the US National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (NCGIA) was established to promote the development of GIS technology. This center played a key role in promoting the use of GIS in a variety of fields, including urban planning, environmental management, and emergency response.

Conclusion

The development of the first computer-based GIS was a gradual process that spanned several decades. From its early beginnings in the 1960s to the commercialization of GIS software in the 1970s and 1980s, GIS technology has come a long way. Today, GIS is a ubiquitous tool used in a wide range of fields, from urban planning and environmental management to emergency response and public health. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how GIS is used in the future.