5 December 2011
(Step 7 of 7 of eSpatial’s “Get started using GIS in 7 easy steps” series.)
- In Step 1, you created a prioritised list of questions you wanted to answer.
- In Step 2, you identified the data you needed to answer those questions.
- In Step 3, you gathered and formatted data.
- In Step 4, you created a map and uploaded your data.
- In Step 5, you created queries that matched your list of questions.
- In Step 6, you styled your mapped data.
Now in Step 7, it’s time to look at the results of your work, create reports, and share your findings.
Examine your results
Now that you’re so close to analysing the results of your work, it’s important to double-check that your maps directly relate back to your prioritised list of questions.
Go through your list question-by-question and ensure that the corresponding maps contain the correct data. In Step 6 you worked on styling your data for visual impact – and now is a great time to review this one last time, making sure that it’s clear, consistent and appropriate for your audience.
Create your reports
Once you’re happy that the mapped data is complete, and that your styling is appropriate, you’re ready to create reports.
Each type of GIS software handles report generation differently, so we can’t give you step-by-step instructions – but here are two things to consider:
- Is a map sufficient on its own?
In some circumstances, viewing the mapped data will answer your question. In others, you require more detail, and the ability to drill down into the data.If you need more detail, you have the option to add charts and graphs.
- Which chart or graph is best?
If you do include a chart or graph, it’s important to select an option that works with the detailed analysis you’re interested in conducting.
For example, if you want to analyse age demographic data in an area, a pie chart that shows the percentages in each age bracket is very effective. If you’re analysing household income and education levels, a line graph is a great choice.
Share your results
Now you’re ready to share your results with colleagues, managers or customers. Because you’ve had your audience in mind throughout the process, you can rest assured that what you have to share will be relevant, and presented in an appropriate way.
Different GIS software offers different options for sharing – you may have the option to print reports, share them in the software with other users, log in to the software during a meeting, or even create interactive, web-based output for stakeholders to view. What’s important is that you’re able to share the results of your work – and that the analysis provides answers to the questions you asked in Step 1.
Congratulations!
Congratulations – you’ve successfully completed the 7 easy steps to start using GIS! We know you’ll gain valuable, additional insights into your organisation by examining how location affects you.
Interested in learning more about GIS software?
Our friendly, expert team is available to show you how eSpatial OnDemand GIS™ makes data mapping quick and easy. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!
