A Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a GIS Specialist

Louis Eriakha -

It is universally agreed that real estate is one of the biggest global industries. Currently valued at $4.3 billion globally according to IBIS World, many believe it is an industry that will keep expanding and evolving as time goes on.

For a successful startup in this industry to flourish, a lot needs to be accounted for or researched to ensure all operations are optimally carried out. Research would have to focus on key factors such as land viability, market/population analysis, risk assessment etc.

A geographic information systems specialist can provide all these and more. They offer invaluable insights into land viability, market analysis, and risk assessment, making them indispensable for real estate professionals. Their services help plan out resources, but this isn't limited to only real estate.

Many industries require geographical information for them to function or at least function a bit better. Think of telecommunication companies that need to know where would be best for placing cell towers in terms of understanding population distribution or hospitals on the lookout for high-risk areas to set up facilities in those areas to provide faster healthcare for people that could get hurt.

With the population on the rise and experts saying we are running fast on the road to 9 billion people, some experts put the date as early as 2037, the need for geographical information does not look like it will dwindle anytime soon. This means the need for a GIS Specialist might be something that would go on for a long time.

This extensive and comprehensive guide will teach you all you need to know if you are considering starting this career path, providing insights into the skills required, job opportunities, and potential earning potential.

Who is a Geographic Information Systems Specialist? 

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialists combine digital design with adventuring to design, develop, and implement systems and databases to access and store geospatial data. They can be thought of as cartographers but with an extra layer.

Because not only do they create maps, but they also use technology to gather, interpret and analyze geographical data. The information they gather and generate can then be put toward many purposes like urban planning, business and marketing, environmental management, etc.