ABSTRACT
Geospatial analysis is the process of gathering, exploring, manipulating, analysing and visualising data that contain explicit geographic positioning information or reference to a specific place. Geospatial analysis is related closely to spatial analysis: indeed, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. However, ‘geospatial’ relates to data that contains a specific geographic component whereas ‘spatial’ relates to the position, area, shape and size of places, spaces, features, objects or phenomena. There are a variety of digital tools and software packages available that enable researchers to undertake geospatial analysis and geospatial mapping. Some are aimed at researchers in disciplines such as the social sciences, geography and medicine, whereas others are aimed at business and the search engine optimisation sector. The Geospatial Information & Technology Association is a member-led, non-profit professional association and advocate for ‘anyone using geospatial technology to help operate, maintain, and protect the infrastructure’.
