How I Would Learn GIS (If I Had To Start Over)

Summary

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Takeaways

• 😀 Local workflows can be sufficient for small data sets, but cloud computing is ideal for larger, more complex data workflows.
• 🌐 Cloud-based workflows provide scalability, allowing users to utilize powerful computing resources and share data globally.
• 💾 Databases and data warehouses on the cloud help manage, store, and query large amounts of data efficiently.
• 📦 Cloud storage systems (data lakes) help organize and manage files, making it easier to access and store data in the cloud.
• 🔄 ETL/ELT tools allow for efficient data loading and streaming, automating data processing tasks in a serverless environment.
• 📊 Using hosted notebooks, like Jupyter Notebooks, in the cloud can enhance productivity and streamline analysis.
• 🌍 Earth observation tools, such as Google Earth Engine, are powerful for analyzing satellite imagery and geospatial data.
• 💻 Understanding the command line is valuable for modern GIS but does not require a full computer science background.
• 🗂️ Knowing basic data structures (e.g., JSON, lists, arrays) is crucial for managing geospatial data and programming in modern GIS workflows.
• 📈 With cloud-native data formats like GeoParquet and Cloud Optimized GeoTIFFs, modern GIS is evolving with more efficient storage and access to data.
• 🗺️ Cartography is still important but modern tools like Kepler.gl and Carto allow users to create visually appealing maps without needing deep cartographic knowledge.
• 💻 For geospatial application development, learning JavaScript, React, and Redux can help build scalable, repeatable components and applications.
• 🧩 Tiling is essential for visualizing large datasets on the web. Understanding map tiles helps in rendering efficient and effective visualizations for big data.

Q & A

What are the key stages in the modern GIS workflow?

The key stages in modern GIS workflow are: Crawl (basic GIS skills), Walk (exploring more advanced tools and processes), Run (automating and optimizing workflows), and Sprint (scaling to larger data and utilizing cloud resources).

How does the cloud enhance modern GIS workflows?

The cloud enhances modern GIS by offering scalable computational resources that are more powerful than local machines, enabling the processing of large datasets, complex data, and frequent updates. It also facilitates global sharing and collaboration.

Can GIS tasks be performed without using the cloud?

Yes, GIS tasks can be performed locally on your computer, and it’s not mandatory to use the cloud. However, when dealing with larger or more complex datasets, cloud services can offer significant advantages.

What are serverless cloud workflows and why are they important in GIS?

Serverless cloud workflows are cloud-native tools that provide on-demand computing power for specific operations. They are important in GIS because they allow users to perform resource-intensive tasks without having to maintain dedicated infrastructure.

What are the primary cloud components for modern GIS?

The primary cloud components for modern GIS are: databases or data warehouses for storing and querying data, cloud storage systems for organizing files (data lakes), ETL/ELT tools for loading data, hosted notebooks for running scripts, and APIs for maps or satellite imagery.

What is the role of Google Earth Engine in modern GIS?

Google Earth Engine is a powerful tool for accessing, analyzing, and running models on satellite imagery, both historic and current. It plays a key role in modern GIS workflows related to Earth observation data.

Do you need a computer science background to work in modern GIS?

No, a complete computer science degree is not necessary for modern GIS. While some knowledge of computer science concepts is helpful, there are many resources and tutorials available to help GIS professionals learn key skills, such as using the command line and understanding basic data structures.

What data formats are emerging in modern GIS?

Emerging data formats in modern GIS include GeoParquet for vector data and Cloud Optimized GeoTIFF (COG) for raster data. These formats are designed to work efficiently in cloud environments and enable better handling of large datasets.

How does modern GIS minimize the need for traditional cartography skills?

Modern GIS minimizes the need for traditional cartography skills by offering powerful tools like Kepler.gl and Cardo, which provide pre-made styling and visualization options. These tools enable users to create sophisticated visualizations without needing deep knowledge of cartographic techniques.

Why is learning JavaScript and React recommended for GIS application development?

Learning JavaScript and React is recommended for GIS application development because these technologies allow developers to build scalable, efficient web applications. React, in particular, helps in creating reusable components, which is essential for large-scale projects.

What is the significance of map tiling in GIS?

Map tiling is significant in GIS because it allows for efficient rendering and display of geospatial data on the web. Tiling services, like those used by Google Maps and Apple Maps, divide data into smaller, manageable tiles that can be quickly loaded and displayed, enabling smooth interactions with large datasets.