Key Messages

In research, especially, data takes centre stage almost always. Today, use of GIS-based technology at all levels of the project — from design to data collection and management, analysis, mapping and visualisation, storytelling and public engagement, to creating and measuring impact — is indispensable.

Changes in industries, communities, and the environment are expected as the human population grows. Spatial data is needed to fully understand why and how changes are happening, as well as to help forecast future developments while mitigating the associated challenges. Thus, GIS helps unlock insights, observe patterns, and study relationships on the basis of spatial data.

Unchained Melody: Beating Research Blues with Free Geospatial Data