We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Technology

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What does a GIS Analyst do?

By Christine Hudson
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 48,512
Share

A Geographical Information Systems (GIS) analyst may have many duties to perform within her job description, including reading geographical data, mapping software programming, or even displaying the distance relationships within an entire country. While many companies may hire an analyst, their definitions and job requirements for the position can vary greatly. For one company, the analyst may simply be reading geographical information from a map and entering it into data form, and for another, the person in this role may be creating entire topographical maps from scratch within certain software parameters.

The general definition of an analyst is one who has solid knowledge of field-related technology and how it can be applied in real life situations. How the GIS analyst is required to use that knowledge depends on the needs of her company, as well as her particular skill set and cumulative experience. This means that a GIS analyst does not need to have a degree in geographical studies. An analyst may have a background in geology, computer programming, and even simple math studies.

General skills required by a GIS analyst usually include math and statistical analysis, excellent written and verbal communication, and knowledge in cartography/geography. Solid spatial skills and programming and creative thinking capabilities may also help an analyst perform her job effectively. A GIS analyst normally must have the ability to think outside the box to solve problems.

Community, national, and local governments may use GIS information for census and community development information and may have many analysts on hand to interpret and display information properly. Many companies that focus on advancing technology may also make use of analysts to help them better understand their markets or help people connect to each other. The pay they are willing to offer, however, may fluctuate greatly. It is generally recommended that an analyst understand what the company expects and what it plans to pay before making the decision to work for it.

It is possible to receive certification as a GIS analyst, which may improve employment opportunities and salary. This certification is acquired through experience, training, and contributions to the profession rather than through an exam. It is considered a prestigious designation which allows a GIS analyst to call herself a GIS Professional (GISP) and says to potential employers and peers that she has earned the position through merit and skill.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By Greatedia — On Jan 27, 2014

As technology progresses, more and more jobs such as this will become available. A degree in a technology-specific field will surely pay off great dividends in the future.

Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-does-a-gis-analyst-do.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.