A GIS is a collection of computer hardware, software, data, procedures, and personnel that functions as an automated system for the capture, storage, update, retrieval, manipulation, analysis, management, and display of all forms of geographically referenced information. GIS is an appropriate technology for integrating and managing information about the campus because it is designed as a mapping and spatial data management tool, in contrast with other technologies which are, for example, designed primarily for "electronic drafting." There are many distinctions about GIS technology which make it an appropriate tool for integrating the University’s spatial data, including the following key points:

• Data about map features is stored in a database, along with the associated map graphics: This characteristic allows the creation of "intelligent maps", more efficient storage and retrieval of data, spatial analysis, and other benefits.
• GIS Data Model: The data model used with GIS software allows for specialized functions and analyses, such as the ability for map features to "know where they are" in relation to each other. This characteristic is essential for spatial analyses such as proximity analysis, buffering, spatial queries, etc.
• Data is referenced to an established coordinate system: This allows relations to be established between different maps and databases.
• GIS software may be used as a data integrator: This provides the ability to "tie together" a number of different software tools into one "Spatial Data Management System".