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Mapping is the visual representation of data, and one of the best ways to link information to a place. Maps may show what everyone expects, or they may reveal patterns and trends in data that are impossible to see any other way. Traditionally, cartographers, geographers, surveyors, planners, and other professionals have created maps, and the process was slow and meticulous. It could literally take months, or even years, to produce high-quality paper maps. Today, GIS programs have made it easier than ever to quickly and affordably generate maps for virtually any project.

The fundamental idea behind GIS programs is to create maps, so it should come as no surprise that most of them do it very well. By linking datasets to geographic locations and features, GIS makes it possible to graphically and spatially visualize complex data. Most of this visualization is in the form of thematic maps that visually represent the geographic distribution of data such as population trends, statistical data, ecological diversity, and other types of spatial information. Thematic maps have a variety of uses, including community planning, utility planning and management, emergency response, habitat restoration and enhancement, watershed planning, coastal planning, economic development, and impact assessment, just to name a few.

Conservation groups and local governments are also starting to use GIS mapping as a way to get citizens involved in the planning process. A community map depicts, at a minimum, where a community wants to encourage growth, the character of desirable growth, and where growth should be deferred. The nice thing about generating maps is that citizens can physically see the results of their input.

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