ArcMap

ArcMap is a tool used to make maps.  There are many potentials as well as many pitfalls to the ArcMap software.  Being able to display layers of data or different data sets at the same time is a potential of GIS.  This gives users the ability to see different aspects of an area.  For example in this exercise, I was able to see the county boundaries and also see which schools were within the noise contour.  Being able to select different features of the data helps to see areas of concern, areas that can be improved, and areas with certain features among other things.  Another potential of the map is being able to display graphical data next to the map.  Having the option of displaying a graph or chart along with the map allows the user to gain more information about the map and to show the data behind the map.  The maps can be customized to what you want displayed simply by displaying or adding certain features.

While using ArcMap I learned many different things about what can be produced on the map and what the limitations are.  GIS has the potential to create maps, modify maps, and edit the content stored within the map.  I found it interesting that I could display data from a map source and also edit the contents.  It was interesting that I was able to modify the road by making it longer and making the road curve.  This allows users to create “what if” scenarios to see what the space will look like it certain changes are made.  This feature is also useful for people developing land because they can add roads, buildings, etc. and see how it fits into the geography.   Another potential of GIS is being able to add your own content to it.  For example, after adding to the road, I was able to add the name of the street to the data and store it.

One of the pitfalls of using ArcMap is that there is a limit to what can be displayed on the map.  In order to display a map, the area and the features need to be well defined.  With using this software, I am not able to display a map of a location that does not have a defined location.  Such as West LA; it is difficult to plot this area because it does not have a distinct boundary and the definition of the area varies by individual.  Having to know the geographic location and coordinates makes it hard to display certain features.  For example, if you want to plot a specific tree in a forest, you need to know the specific coordinates of that tree in order to display it accurately.  In order for me to create a map that would be practical in ArcMap, I need to have a defined location and defined features.

Another pitfall of ArcMap is that it is not user-centric.  The map cannot be made into a dynamic map that merges media such as videos and pictures into the map.  ArcMap is more rigid than user interfaces such as Google MyMaps.  Although the map is more “professional” and is upheld to certain guidelines and standards, it is difficult for the map to bring in other information and media that may make the map easier to understand or may enhance the point of the map.  When GIS and dynamic maps start to merge there will be more possibilities in map making and conveying geographic information.

GIS has a lot of potential in being able to display a variety of features and to edit data.  Although there are a lot of potentials of GIS, there are also some limitations and pitfalls of the software.  It is important to realize the limitations of the software in order to maximum the full potential of GIS.