GIS Overview:

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) displays all forms of spatially referenced geographic information.  By the use of hardware and software specifically designed to collect, manage, manipulate and analyze this spatially referenced data, users have an accurate geo-referenced snapshot of their system at their finger tips.  An accurate GIS becomes an invaluable tool to system managers by enabling them to provide a more cost efficient maintenance program, plan capitol improvements, system expansions and land development.  Certain utility owners are required to provide annual reports of their system which GIS can usually provide depending on the accuracy of the data that was collected.  The gas pipeline industry for example is required to provide a GIS to the federal government through the National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS) on an annual bases depending on how often their system changes.