::::{grid} auto :::{grid-item-card} :class-card: sd-text-center sd-rounded-circle :link: https://giscience.github.io/gis-training-resource-center/content/intro.html {octicon}`home-fill;1.5em;sd-text-danger` ::: :::: # What is GIS? At its core, GIS is a computer-based system to organise data with a spatial component (_geodata_). There are three core functions of GIS: :::{div} sd-text-center sd-text-italic sd-text-primary 1. Connecting data to maps 2. Visualisation, organisation and processing of spatial data 3. Analysing spatial ::: ```{figure} /fig/GIS_Core_functunality.drawio.svg --- height: 500px name: GIS_Core_functunality align: center --- GIS core functionality (Source: HeiGIT). ``` In humanitarian work, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) serve as powerful tools. They utilize maps to present complex information clearly and efficiently. For instance, during emergencies, GIS can visualize events on a map, depicting where they occur, the extent of impact, and identifying primary needs. It aids in consolidating data from various sources, enabling quick comprehension of situations and facilitating better decision-making. __A more formal definition:__ A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a digital tool that integrates data with maps. It enables the collection, management, analysis, and visualization of data by associating them with specific locations on the Earth's surface. By leveraging GIS, we gain deeper insights into data, revealing patterns and providing a better understanding of the geographic context. This leads to more insightful analysis, improved communication, and ultimately facilitates better evidence-based decision-making. GIS is deeply rooted in geography, the scientific field dedicated to studying Earth's lands, features, inhabitants, and phenomena. GIS software is capable of displaying various types of data simultaneously on a map, enhancing our ability to comprehend complex spatial relationships. ## GIS components GIS is more than a software. It’s a system and it includes multiple elements: ```{figure} /fig/GIS_definition_icons.drawio.svg --- height: 200px name: GIS_definition_icons align: center --- GIS components (Source: British Red Cross) ``` ## Examples of GIS used by humanitarian organisations To get a better understanding of how GIS is used in the humanitarian sector, we have collected some examples from different organisations in the section below (click the different tabs to view the examples by organisation). :::::{tab-set} ::::{tab-item} Lebanese Red Cross This video gives an overview of GIS use in the Lebanese Red Cross in their operations, including informing ambulance services and supporting blood donations. :::: ::::{tab-item} IFRC The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) publishes a wide variety of maps to support active operations. You can find some of those on [ReliefWeb](https://reliefweb.int/updates?advanced-search=%28S1242%29_%28F12%29) or on the IFRC GO platform's [Emergency pages](https://go.ifrc.org/emergencies/all). %%html :::: ::::{tab-item} ICRC The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has a specialised GIS Support Unit that runs their [GIS Resource Center](https://gisupporticrc.github.io/GISResourceCenter/#portfolio) and ICRC GeoPortal. The ICRC resource centre portfolio gives an idea of the kinds of analysis the GIS unit produces, although much of it is not public. :::: ::::{tab-item} REACH Initiative REACH Initiative is a humanitarian data collection and analysis NGO that has a strong GIS specialism. The [REACH Resource Centre](https://www.impact-initiatives.org/resource-centre/) is where the organisation publishes content, including [standalone maps](https://www.impact-initiatives.org/resource-centre/?category[]=information_products&category[]=data_methods&type[]=281&order=latest&limit=10) and [reports](https://www.impact-initiatives.org/resource-centre/?category[]=information_products&category[]=data_methods&order=latest&limit=10) which also often include maps and spatial analysis. ```{figure} /fig/REACH_UKR_Map_CSM_SituationOverview_ActiveSites_FEB2024_EN_A4-1.png --- height: 500px name: REACH_UKR_Map_CSM_SituationOverview_ActiveSites_FEB2024_EN_A4 align: center --- Example Map: REACH, Ukraine, IDP Collective Site Monitoring, Map, Active Sites, February 2024. Source: [REACH](https://repository.impact-initiatives.org/document/reach/794cd686/REACH_UKR_Map_CSM_SituationOverview_ActiveSites_FEB2024_EN_A4.pdf) ``` :::: ::::{tab-item} Médecins Sans Frontières Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has a [GIS Unit](https://geo.msf.org/home) that publishes geospatial products on the [GeoMSF platform](https://geo.msf.org/catalogue) to support MSF activities. MSF uses GIS in four main areas: * Operations, emergency preparedness and response * Healthcare * Advocacy, communication and reporting * Environmental health This short video outlines the role of GIS in MSF's response to the 2015 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone. :::: ::::{tab-item} World Food Programme (WFP) The World Food Programme (WFP) produces maps and publishes geodata both on their own data platform - [WFP Geonode](https://geonode.wfp.org/) and on the [Humanitarian Data Exchange (HDX)](https://data.humdata.org/organization/wfp?). You can find maps published by WFP on [RelifeWeb](https://reliefweb.int/updates?advanced-search=%28S1741%29_%28F12%29). WFP's [Geospatial Activities Catalogue](https://www.wfp.org/publications/wfp-geospatial-activities-catalogue)outline's to organisation's geospatial services, which includes developing dashboards like this one one [cash assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan](https://www.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=93b4605fff13415bb8d2decd0e9158e0). WFP also builds dashboards for advocacy, like HungerMap Live: %%html :::: ::::{tab-item} iMMAP iMAAP is an information management NGO that provides support to the UN and international NGOs. Their [product portfolio](https://immap.org/products/) includes examples of maps used in situation overviews, interactive dashboards and sector-specific analysis. ```{figure} /fig/Afghanistan-Earthquake-Events-Overview-February-2024_page-0001-scaled.jpg --- height: 500px name: Afghanistan-Earthquake-Events-Overview-February-2024_page-0001-scaled align: center --- Example Map: Afghanistan Earthquake Events Overview February 2024 (Source: [iMMAP](https://immap.org/product/afghanistan-earthquake-events-overview-february-2024/)). ``` :::: ::::{tab-item} MapAction MapAction produces maps and geospatial data support decision-making in emergency response. Their [maps and data](https://maps.mapaction.org/) page shows recent products they have published, and their [product catalogue](https://guides.mapaction.org/) gives an overview of the types of services they provide. ```{figure} /fig/cluster-camp-coordination.jpg --- height: 500px name: cluster-camp-coordination align: center --- Example Map: Philippines - TS Washi (Sendong) - Evacuation centre amd transitory site population, Cagayan de Or (Source: [MapAction](https://guides.mapaction.org/images/examples/cluster-camp-coordination.jpg)). ``` :::: ::::: ## GIS vs cartography __Cartography__ is the art and science of creating maps, encompassing the study and practice of mapmaking techniques. A Geographic Information System (GIS) represents a __modern evolution__ of traditional cartography, integrating advanced technologies and methods for spatial data analysis and visualization. While both cartography and GIS involve the creation of maps, they differ significantly in their capabilities and approaches. Cartographic maps typically present a simplified representation of geographic features, constrained by the limitations of physical space and the medium of the map itself. In contrast, GIS allows for the integration of vast amounts of spatial data, enabling complex analysis, modeling, and visualization beyond the scope of traditional cartography. One key distinction is that GIS facilitates the incorporation of diverse datasets, with virtually unlimited capacity for __additional layers and information__. This flexibility empowers users to conduct __spatial analysis, perform statistical assessments__, and derive insights to support decision-making processes. In essence, while cartography focuses primarily on map design and visualization, GIS extends beyond to encompass spatial data management, analysis, and interpretation. Therefore, GIS serves as a powerful tool for cartographers and professionals across various fields to create, analyze, and derive insights from geographic information ## What is spatial analysis? Many map products rely on spatial analysis. And indeed, the ability to use analysis tools allows us to get the most out of the data we have and to solve a wide variety of problems. The points below give you an simple definition of the concept. However, the example of John Snow's cholera map of 1854 is a popular example of how spatial analysis can help to solve problems. - Spatial analysis __studies entities and events__ using their topological, geometric, or geographic properties. - It includes a __variety of techniques__ to analyse geographic data. - Data can be __added to a map as layers and they can interact with each other__. - GIS enables you to work with these __layers__ to explore critically important questions and __find answers__ to those questions. ### An example from the past: John Snow's cholera map In 1854, an __outbreak of cholera__ occurred in the Soho area of London, England. The most common theory was that the disease was spread through the air. Dr. John Snow believed that the danger was __in the water__. He made a map to analyse the __number of deaths__ in every housing block in Soho. He added the __location of water pumps__ on the map. He found a __correlation__ between one specific water pump and the number of infections. __Dr. Snow's map of the cholera outbreak of 1854__ ({numref}`John_snow_zoom_map2`), and the reports that it accompanied, __won over the predominant "miasma theory"__ that the disease __was spread through the air__. Residents were now warned to __boil their water__, and so ended the last cholera outbreak London has seen. This interactive version of the cholera map shows it overlaid on a basemap of modern London. ```{figure} /fig/John_snow_zoom_map2.png --- height: 600px name: John_snow_zoom_map2 align: center --- John Snow's Cholera map of London (1854). ``` __Using GIS__, several measures of spatial central tendency have been applied to the dataset, revealing that the Spatial Mean (the geographic center of the distribution of deaths) of the outbreak lies __within 35 meters of the Broad Street Pump__, identified as the __source of contamination__ in the 1854 outbreak. :::{card} %%html ::: ## Common map types in humanitarian response :::{note} The humanitarian sector tends to use certain types of maps regularly. These areoutlined below. ::: ### General reference maps - Show important __physical features__ of an area - Include __natural and man-made features__ - Usually meant to help for __navigation__ or discovery of locations - Usually fairly __simple__ - Can be __styled__ based on the intended audience ```{figure} /fig/general_ref_map_nigeria_ogun.png --- height: 600px name: general_ref_map_nigeria_ogun align: center --- Example Map: Nigeria: Reference Map of Ogun state (As of 26 December 2018) (Source: [OCHA](https://reliefweb.int/map/nigeria/nigeria-reference-map-ogun-state-26-december-2018?_gl=1*151t3z9*_ga*MTkxOTMyNTA1Ni4xNzE4MTAzNzMz*_ga_E60ZNX2F68*MTcyNDkzNDIyMC44LjEuMTcyNDkzNDU4Ni4zNC4wLjA)). ``` ### Infrastructure maps Infrastructure maps in the humanitarian context provide visual representations of critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, hospitals, and utilities in a given area. These maps help humanitarian organizations assess the accessibility of affected areas, plan relief efforts, and coordinate resources effectively during emergencies or disasters. - Display relevant features and __structures__ in a specific area - Help __planning__ and navigation - High level of __detail__ - Produced after field __data collection__ ```{figure} /fig/en_Infrastructure_Map_Nigeria.png --- height: 600px name: en_Infrastructure_Map_Nigeria align: center --- Example Map: Nigeria - Borno State - Mogcolis Camp, General Infrastructure - Updated 24 July 2017 align: center (Source: [REACH](https://reliefweb.int/map/nigeria/nigeria-borno-state-mogcolis-camp-general-infrastructure-updated-24-july-2017)) ``` ### Thematic maps Thematic maps display specific themes or topics such as population density, disease outbreaks, or vulnerability levels within a geographic area. These maps help humanitarian organizations analyze and understand specific issues or trends, guiding decision-making and resource allocation for targeted interventions and relief efforts. - Focus on a __specific theme__ or subject - Features on the map __represent the subject__ being mapped - Use __colours and shapes__ to display quantitative and qualitative data - Rise __awareness__ about a specific subject ```{figure} /fig/en_thematic_map_example_IFRC.png --- height: 600px name: en_thematic_map_example_IFRC align: center --- Example Map: Shelter Sector Turkiye: Rental prices changes, February - April 2023 (Source: [IFRC](https://reliefweb.int/map/turkiye/shelter-sector-turkiye-rental-prices-changes-february-april-2023)). ``` ### Analysis maps Analysis maps are used to examine and interpret data, revealing patterns, trends, and relationships within a geographic area. They facilitate in-depth understanding of complex situations, enabling decision-makers to derive insights and make informed decisions for effective humanitarian responses. - __Analyse data__ in respect to their geographic location - Create __new layers of information__ from the interaction between multiple features - Use colours and shapes __to help users__ understand specific events - __Support__ decision makers - Generally display a greater __level of detail__ ```{figure} /fig/en_Analysis_Map_Yemen.png --- height: 600px name: en_Analysis_Map_Yemen align: center --- Example Map: CCCM Cluster Yemen - REACH - Flood Hazard of IDP Sites - Marib governorate - Flood Depth Model (Source: [REACH](https://data.unhcr.org/es/documents/details/98946)). ``` ### Situation/descriptive maps Situation or descriptive maps provide a snapshot of specific conditions or events in a particular geographic area. They visualize key information such as locations of resources, population distribution, infrastructure, and environmental factors. These maps offer a clear overview of the current situation, aiding in understanding and communication among stakeholders involved in humanitarian operations. - Used to __better visualize__ a specific ongoing and/or past situation - Maps can include __narrative__ and graphic elements - Can be used in reports and/or to __raise awareness__ on a specific event ```{figure} /fig/en_Pop_Syrian_Refugees_2023.png --- width: 600px name: en_Pop_Syrian_Refugees_2023 align: center --- Example Map: UNHCR Iraq Population Profile - Breakdown Overview - Syrian Refugees Registration December 2023 (Source: [UNHCR](https://reliefweb.int/report/iraq/unhcr-iraq-population-profile-breakdown-overview-syrian-refugees-registration-december-2023)). ``` ## Self-Assessment Questions :::::{admonition} Test your knowledge :class: note Take a moment to reflect on what you've learned in this module. The questions below are designed to help you check your understanding of key concepts and identify areas you may want to review further. You don't need to submit your answers — this is for your own learning. 1. __What are the three core functions of GIS?__ :::{dropdown} Answer GIS (Geographic Information System) is a system for capturing, manipulating, analysing, and visualising spatial data. The three core functions are: - __Data Capture__: creating (or digitising) spatial data. - __Analysis__: performing analyses or processing spatial data to gain insights or knowledge. - __Visualisation__: Visualising spatial data on maps, charts, or reports to communicate information ::: 2. __What is spatial analysis and how did John Snow use spatial analysis in his cholera outbreak map from 1854?__ :::{dropdown} Answer Spatial analysis is the process of examining geographic (spatial) data to detect patterns, relationships, trends, and spatial structures. It involves operations like overlay, buffering, proximity, clustering, interpolation, and assessing how phenomena vary across space. In 1854, Dr. John Snow mapped the locations of cholera deaths in London (Soho district) alongside the locations of water pumps. He noticed that the cholera cases clustered around one particular pump (on Broad Street). Because there was a spatial clustering around that pump, he hypothesized that the water from that pump was the source of the outbreak. He then convinced authorities to remove the pump handle, after which the outbreak declined. In effect, he used spatial distribution and clustering of disease incidents to infer a causal relationship. (This is a classic early example of applying spatial analysis in epidemiology.)His map showed that the deaths were not randomly distributed but spatially concentrated around a water source, which is the essence of spatial reasoning. ::: 3. __Name the five common map types used in humanitarian work.__ :::{dropdown} Answer 1. General Reference Maps: Show general geographic features like roads, rivers, and administrative boundaries; used for navigation and orientation. 2. Infrastructure Maps: Thematic maps focused on physical infrastructure (e.g., hospitals, water points, roads); used for planning and logistics. 3. Thematic Maps: Represent a specific theme or dataset (e.g., population, rainfall, conflict); uses color, shapes, or symbols to visualize non-spatial attributes. 4. Analysis Maps: Result from spatial analysis to guide decision-making (e.g., hazard risk zones, suitability models). 5. Situation Maps: Provide an overview of a humanitarian or emergency situation; show affected areas, operational activities, or needs assessments. ::: :::::