GIS hardware includes a central server and, often, hand-held field equipment that can be used to enter information. Several software packages are available for GIS systems, but all rely on a combination of spatial and attribute data input. Some software packages have extensions that can increase the performance of a GIS system. Finally, all GIS systems incorporate both spatial and attribute data into datasets which are called "metadata." Spatial, or location, data, are comprised of a set of points which mathematically identifies objects or locations; attribute data are other information about these objects or locations entered by the users.

GIS programs are the ones responsible for most of the mapping programs we are now familiar with which combine pictures and information about locations with maps. An example of the use of GIS systems is mapping a town center and then providing "walk throughs" of the streets with pictures of the buildings and information about each location. GIS can also be used to collate demographic information about an area, allowing users to quickly assess population densities and another information about an area.

GIS systems are not simple to set up, and specialized training is necessary to acquire the skills to set up a meta database and integrate the features of the software. However, most end-users can operate GIS software with a minimum of problem once the database is created.

James Mowery is a computer geek that writes about technology and related topics. To read more blog posts by him, go to laptop computers