In its simplest terms, a GIS is a computer system designed to understand, store and analyze spatial data. However, for professionals in or involved with the GIS industry, a GIS extends beyond just the computer itself and represents a multi-part system, comprising of data, methods, software, hardware, and most importantly, people. People ultimately power the GIS industry, reimagining how spatial information can be understood, analyzed, and consumed. By incorporating GIS experience into your professional portfolio, you drastically increase your marketability by demonstrating a unique skill-set, in addition to showing employers you have a specialized means of understanding and analyzing information. This is why you should learn GIS
The argument that the school you attended is the defining factor when applying for a job is dying, as employers are focusing more on what specific skills you have The key to standing out is to have differentiating factors so you can get through the preliminary screening and secure an interview. The internships, research, and positions you had while getting your education show employers you have the unique skills and experience they are looking for. Having a unique and specialized skill-set has the same effect. Experience working with GIS (enough to include it on your resume) is a major differentiating factor. As Esri continues to push Web GIS, online solutions, and integration with Microsoft Office, Sharepoint, and other business products, having enough experience to understand and converse about GIS solutions goes a long way.
How will working with GIS advance your career?
Advancing your career is a complex process involving experience, networking, risk-taking, and again, differentiating yourself. When a new position at your company opens up, management will have to decide who will fill the void and, given that it is cheaper, less risk-intensive, and more productive to hire internally rather than externally, they are probably looking around the office.
Working with GIS provides a unique lens that offers useful insight into how processes and patterns change in time and space. Rather than running through the motions of your current responsibilities, integrating GIS analysis into reports, presentations and daily operations introduce dynamism and an additional layer of thoroughness to your work. Additionally, extending your responsibilities also shows management that you are looking to self-improve and go the extra mile.
In addition to offering a means of analyzing data, maps themselves have worth and are useful tools when examining a situation. Maps allow for complex phenomena to be displayed in simple terms, making decision-making considerably more straightforward and less abstract. Additionally, understanding cartographic design principles allows map-makers to influence the perceptions of the audience.
In consideration of how GIS can be a tool to increase the thoroughness of your analysis, the robustness of your presentation, and your professional identity, it is worthwhile to explore if you are trying to push your professional career forward.
If you are interested in learning GIS for yourself or your staff, we at Geoinfotech are passionate about proffering the best of value with our GIS training programs. To find out more about our training services and how you can learn GIS, visit https://geoinfotech.ng/training/
