What is the purpose of using a Geographic Information System?

The purpose of using a Geographic Information System (GIS) is primarily to analyze and visualize spatial data for informed decision-making. GIS enables users to collect, manage, and analyze geographic information, allowing them to understand patterns, relationships, and trends in spatial data. Through various tools and methods, GIS can generate maps, perform spatial analyses, and visualize data overlays, facilitating a deeper understanding of geographic phenomena and informing strategic choices in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and resource allocation.

While the other options touch on activities that can involve used GIS – such as navigation, wildlife tracking, and artistic representations – they do not encapsulate the core functionality of GIS as a system designed for analysis and visualization specifically aimed at decision-making processes across various disciplines. The integration of spatial data analysis and visualization is what sets GIS apart as a vital tool in many sectors.