GIS manipulation and analysis functions are vital for decision-making and planning. These activities range from data retrieval tasks, such as selecting information based on specific criteria, to advanced analytical techniques that address complex spatial problems.

One critical GIS analysis method is overlaying, which combines multiple data layers to examine impacts. For example, overlaying a river-dammed lake boundary with road networks can identify affected infrastructure. Another common technique is buffering, which creates zones of equal distance around features. Buffers are useful for site planning, such as identifying areas near water bodies or hazardous sites.

The least-cost path method calculates optimal routes based on constraints like distance and time. This technique is crucial for emergency vehicle routing and evacuation planning during disasters. For instance, GIS can identify evacuees, design evacuation routes, and allocate housing effectively. Similarly, GIS solves network problems by optimizing inspection routes or identifying ideal locations for public services like police stations, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in planning.

Statistical spatial analysis evaluates relationships and dependencies between geographic features. Spatial autocorrelation, for example, examines how similar or dissimilar features influence one another. Businesses use this technique to select optimal locations by analyzing trends such as clustering. Additionally, GIS employs spatial statistics for geological predictions, such as estimating mineral distributions.

GIS also excels in data visualization, integrating spatial and attribute data into thematic maps, graphs, and reports. Visual tools like color coding graduated symbols or pie charts effectively communicate complex information. For example, maps showing travel modes by region can aid decision-making. GIS outputs are available in diverse formats, from detailed reports to large-scale visualizations, ensuring accessible and actionable analysis results.

GIS offers powerful tools for solving real-world spatial problems across various fields through its analytical, statistical, and visualization capabilities.