Geographic Information Systems (GIS) operate across three levels of application, each representing an increasing degree of complexity: data management, analysis, and prediction. These levels reflect the expanding functionality and versatility of GIS technology in handling spatial data for diverse purposes.

Data Management

At its foundational level, GIS serves as a tool for data management, enabling the input, storage, retrieval, and organization of spatial data. This level is often employed in infrastructure systems, such as managing sewer networks. GIS can store attributes like pipe types, diameters, and installation dates, allowing users to retrieve specific information through simple queries. Most GIS applications operate at this level, streamlining the organization and accessibility of geographic data for practical use.

Analysis

The second level of GIS application involves analysis, where spatial data is processed to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. This functionality enables more advanced tasks, such as determining the shortest route between two locations; classifying land areas based on predefined criteria; or calculating feature densities, such as the distribution of septic tanks within a region. Analytical capabilities provide critical insights that inform decision-making, resource allocation, and planning efforts.

Predictive Modeling

GIS facilitates predictive modeling at its most advanced stage, tackling intricate "What if?" scenarios. This application enables users to simulate future events and outcomes, such as forecasting the traffic impacts of land development, predicting hurricane damage in vulnerable areas, or assessing air quality during large-scale events. By integrating spatial data with predictive algorithms, GIS empowers planners and policymakers to anticipate and mitigate potential challenges effectively.

These three levels — data management, analysis, and prediction — highlight the sophistication of GIS technology and its indispensable role in modern spatial data applications.