About Mapping
Computer mapping and spatial analyses are powerful and effective research tools. GRI researchers utilize the latest mapping technology to produce maps and conduct spatial analyses that integrate diverse types of data into layers of information–this data can be acquired from vendors and government agencies, or from your own organizations databases.
Computer mapping, also known as a Geographic Information System (GIS), works much like a spreadsheet or database program, where data contained in tables can be transformed into visually descriptive displays. In the case of spreadsheet software, the data becomes a bar chart or line graph, while in the case of a computer mapping program the data can be linked to a digital map and displayed spatially.
One main difference between spreadsheets (such as Excel) and GIS software is the ability of the GIS to link the information from a table to a spatially accurate map of counties, ZIP codes, cities, neighborhoods, census tracts, etc. These maps can be purchased from city agencies or private companies, or users can create their own maps or edit existing maps.
Here are some research questions we can answer using mapping technology:
- Is there a relationship between asthma rates and proximity to certain types of industry?
- What services are most needed in a specific neighborhood?
- Where should a particular product or service be marketed?
- Where is the best location for a new store or office?
A research organization can use maps to:
- Understand the characteristics of a given place (the economic and social conditions of neighborhood X)
- Illustrate the geographic distribution of a particular variable (public housing, skin cancer, young people, etc.)
- Analyze the relationship between multiple data sets (unemployment, poverty, and crime)
- Select target locations based upon specific criteria (wealthy areas that have many elderly residents)