Blog

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

GIS is powerful mapping software that organizations use to visualize information, manage assets, and run analytics.

Explore other categories:

Mobile GIS

GIS

Construction Mapping

Mapping Software

Top Risks for Utilities

Lead Service Lines

Construction Tech

Project Management

Share blog

Most Recent Articles on

GIS

GIS in Construction: What It Is and Why It Matters

The use of GIS in construction entails organizing project data on an intuitive map – simplifying inspections, progress tracking, photo documentation, and more.

A person uses modern GIS on their smartphone.

Intro to GIS: How It Works and How to Get Started

Geographic information systems (GIS) manage, analyze, and map data, revealing valuable insights. Explore this innovative mapping software in our guide.

How to Choose the Best Mapping Software for You

Mapping software comes in many forms, and different projects require different tools. Explore four different types of mapping software and review our top picks.

a field worker collects data on an ipad using mobile gis

Mobile GIS | Benefits, Use Cases, & Implementation

Field users aren’t GIS specialists. Mobility is key to Mobile GIS, but accessibility is even more critical. Learn how to find Mobile GIS built for the field.

6 Steps to Maximize Your Utility Asset Management Program

Effective asset management increases asset lifespan and minimizes breakdowns for natural gas utilities. This guide is a first step towards an effective program.

a map of GIS data captured on a mobile device

How to Streamline Field Data Collection with Mobile GIS

Explore key GIS data collection devices, practices, and challenges. See how Mobile GIS increases efficiency, and learn how to implement this tech on your team.

A utility worker using Mobile GIS in the field

What is Mobile GIS? Key Traits & Uses

Mobile GIS brings the power and complexity of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data into the field. But it’s also so much more than "GIS on a mobile device."

Unearth's Jay Smith in the field with a natural gas crew

Cincinnati, Ohio: Equipping the Field with Mobile GIS

Unearth visited Cincinnati to support field crews who install natural gas pipes and see firsthand how Mobile GIS can better serve boots on the ground.

How to Optimize Telecom Network Operations with GIS

Telecommunications providers can use GIS to enhance network planning, streamline deployment, and maintain network infrastructure more efficiently.

a model of a city in an urban planning office

Utilizing GIS to Streamline Urban Planning

Learn how GIS is used in urban planning - from resource inventory, to creating land-use maps, to analyzing environmental data.

a globe displaying a map of Africa and Europe

The Long Road to Modern Cartography

Explore modern cartography tools and common applications for cartography in every day life. Plus, a brief history of cartography and it's evolution through the ages.

miles of transmission lines crossing the U.S.

GIS for Utilities: Increase Efficiency of Inspections and Maintenance

Explore how utilities can use GIS mapping software to manage utility assets and organize inspection data - optimizing field operations from start to finish.

GIS for Oil & Gas: Optimizing Operations Across Every Sector

From well planning, to pipeline mapping, to refinery management - GIS has many applications across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.

8 Amazing Free GIS Software Options

Reviewing the best free GIS mapping and analysis tools available today. Make GIS maps, visualize data, and conduct geospatial analysis - all for free.

What is Google Earth?

Google Earth is probably the best known GIS software. Learn about the product's tumultuous history, current versions, and the best available alternatives - now that Google Earth Pro is no longer supported.

Our Favorite GIS Data Collection Tools in 2022

GIS data collection requires the right hardware. This guide covers GPS units, digitizers, mobile devices, and other useful GIS tools.

A map speaks a thousand words

With GIS, you can pin detailed information to real-world coordinates, layer almost any type of data, and create informative models.

And the world is taking note. From fire departments to utilities, companies are using this technology to improve planning and streamline work.

Fortunately, GIS is more accessible today than ever before: say hello to Mobile GIS.

Understand the basics with Unearth’s comprehensive guide to GIS that unpacks GIS mapping, data, and software.

Options for Learning GIS: Looking to become a GIS specialist? Start your journey here.

What is Mobile GIS? Key Traits and Uses: Mobile GIS is a great entry point to GIS: Built for the field, easy-to-use, and affordable.

Best GIS Data Collection Tools: See our recommendations for digitizers, GPS units, mobile devices, and GIS hardware.

GIS for Utilities: Learn how GIS can transform utilities in Part 1 of our series on the impact of GIS on built world industries.