GIS Frequently Asked Questions

What is GIS and what can it do for you?

"GIS is a collection of computer hardware, software, and geographic data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information." — ESRI Web site

For more information, visit the GIS information page.

"GIS is fundamentally used to answer questions and make decisions. To use GIS properly, it is important to know what you want to ask and follow a disciplined process for getting the answer." — ESRI Web site

For more information, visit the GIS analysis information page.

GIS software allows you to combine layers of information commonly seen on maps, such as roads, streets, streams or cities, with databases describing those features, such as road surface, addresses, population, or water quality data. You can then create a "smart map" which allows you to create interactive searches that combine information from various layers to answer questions or convey information. Visit the ESRI homepage for more introductory information.

Is GIS right for what you want to do?

It depends. Sometimes an interactive Web-based map server is a better choice. Using GIS to create a customized map requires learning how to use GIS software and how to formulate an effective strategy for building a "smart map". You will also need to acquire datasets and combine them for your particular needs. On the other hand, you do not need to learn GIS software if a printed map or a picture file of a map is sufficient. Interactive Web map servers allow you to select the information included, and then either print out the map, or on some Web sites, download it. See various map servers

How do I learn to use GIS software?

Cal Poly students, staff and faculty may sign up for online classes to learn how to use GIS software. Cal Poly faculty are invited to contact us for customized, hands-on Intro to GIS sessions taught in the Reference Room’s Research and Instruction classroom (35-111h). Learn more about GIS learning opportunities at Kennedy Library

How do I use CAD data in GIS or use GIS data in CAD?

ESRI ArcGIS software has some built-in CAD (Computer Aided Design) capabilities, including import of CAD files. It is also possible to export .jpg and other picture formats for printing a customized map or importing into publishing or CAD software. Cal Poly has a license for the ArcView version of ArcGIS9.x. Learn more about combining CAD and GIS software.

What about GPS?

GPS (Global Positioning System) data is frequently imported into GIS projects. Learn more about adding GPS data to GIS software.

How do I find data files for use with GIS software?

SLO DataFinder
Kennedy Library has partnered with CalPoly, CalPoly Swanton Pacific Ranch, Cal Trans District 5, the Central Coast Wetlands GIS Project, the City of San Luis Obispo, and the SLO County Dept. of Planning and Building to provide local GIS datasets to the Cal Poly community and the public.
Topozone
Topozone is a commercial Web site that provides digital topographic maps, orthophotomaps and digitized aerial photos obtained from the USGS (United States Geological Survey). Kennedy Library has a subscription to this service, and the GIS student assistants or the Reference Desk staff accept requests for specific files.
Census CD
Various CensusCD software titles allow creation of maps and reports using both recent and historical national demographic data. The CensusCD software contains built-in thematic mapping and reporting tools, as well as tools that allow maps and data reports to be exported and used with other GIS software such as ArcGIS.
CalPoly-only datasets not available through the Web
Cal Poly students, staff and faculty have access from on campus to some commercial datasets that are not available to the general public. The GIS Workstations in the Reference Room are mapped to these resources, and other on-campus computers may also be mapped to these drives.
Searching the Web for GIS data
The GIS community has made hundreds of thousands of datasets available on the Web for GIS users.

Where can I use GIS software in the Library and on campus?

Kennedy Library provides three dedicated GIS workstations in the Reference Room, available during all library open hours. GIS users have first priority use of the workstations, which may be reserved in advance. ESRI ArcGIS9.x software is available for use, as are several other software titles, such as CensusCD.

Experienced GIS Student Assistants are available to help with individual GIS projects and to help locate appropriate GIS datasets. Their hours and contact information are posted at the GIS Workstation area, and appointments may be made in advance.

GIS software is also installed in other labs on campus, and in the Learning Commons on the 2nd floor of the Library. See the various Cal Poly Departmental Web pages for availability and restrictions on use:

Where can I copy or scan printed maps, or print GIS maps?

If you find a flat map that you'd like to scan or photocopy, go to Pony Prints in the 24-Hour Study Room for their assistance.

To print a GIS map you've created that's larger than 11" x 17" - save it as a .jpg (or other picture file format) to a portable USB drive or CD. Take it to Pony Prints in the 24-Hour Study Room, where large format printers and various paper types are available.

Does Cal Poly offer a degree in GIS?

For those who want to enhance their career options, Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture offers a minor in GIS. See the GIS minor information page for more information.

For more information, consult a college librarian or a Reference Desk staff member at (805) 756-2649.