GIS Demonstration: The "G" maps the "I" in a "S"ystem

Consider the 3 parts of a GIS: The "G" is the map. It could be 2D or 3D, or even 4D including a temporal component. It can contain different basemaps and 1 or many layers. The "I" is the Information, or table or spreadsheet, behind the map. The tabular data, along with the topological relationships, are what gives GIS its power. A GIS is not just graphics floating around in cyberspace: It has intelligence that allows you to make wise decisions based upon it. The "S" systems part links the "G" and the "I" together--the map always works with the table, and vice versa.

Consider the example below. Choose a place that is meaningful to you. Enter a latitude, longitude, title, your ranking of the scenery of that place from 1 to 10, a description, and a photo URL for it (if you want to include a photo). You are entering into the "I" part of GIS. Wait a few minutes and that point with the attributes will appear on the ArcGIS Online web map below the spreadsheet.