Week 4: Arc Map Tutorial

Arc GIS is an amazingly helpful software. It allows the function of combining several types of data of a geographic location. Using ARCMaps for the first time is challenging. By following the brochure, it took a long time to create the final map. However if followed correctly there were no issues. When followed incorrectly it often didn't become apparent until a few steps later, there fore it was time consuming and difficult to pinpoint the last error.

Arc GIS has a lot of potential. It allows for the creator to consider several variables, giving the freedom to make it as complex or simple. Also it is also helpful because of the Excel type functions it has. You can extrapolate the data creating graphs, charts and so on with the information. This allows for the map to be as thorough as possible. It is also an efficient way to show your data and information, all on one page. Also, with the information provided, GIS software can also make predictions. This has ample benefits for studying and establishing trends. Although difficult at first, the continuous use and repetitive actions makes it helpful to quickly remember actions and commands. Another good point of this, is how you can easily edit/modify the information. By changing and adding number/information it will modify your existing map accordingly.

Some of the negative aspects and pitfalls is the reliance on databases. Of course none of the commands would work without the data layers, because that is the information. but one error in the database can not only skew but completely mess up the map. Also, at certain times, I found myself frustrated with the many toolbars. I had to keep several open at a time, and when it came time to zoom in and out, change scale, etc, I had difficulties. By the end of it I got it down, but in the beginning I spent more time than necessary trying to fix sizes, scales etc.

Over all, GIS has many benefits. Overtime, with future software updates, it will become even more user-friendly. It already has so many benefits and is used so frequently, that most people underestimate is true value and potential. Eventually learning how to use GIS software might become something even high school-ers will even learn to use, because of its many benefits.