Learn how to create effective GIS data visualizations for environmental data with tips and techniques on data type, format, symbols, colors, analysis, labels, legends, scale, and projection.

According to your objective you list the data you need. All types of data in GIS can be categoriesed in 3 classes ( 1.Vector-based ( such as shape file and so on), 2. raster-based data( in continuous grids network form such as images,DEMs and DEM-based products such as Slope and aspect, such topography data and other raster maps; and 3. Other data which can be converted to vector or raster types ( such as attributes, graphs, paper maps, GPS data and so on)). In the next step, you can select the relevant tools to analyze, model, map, report, and so on. Notice that, in many cases various type of data can be displayed in a same limitation that each of them is presenting and demonstrating some properties and info about that same object area.

How can you effectively display environmental data in GIS?

Environmental data, such as climate, air quality, biodiversity, and land use, can provide valuable insights for decision making, planning, and management. However, to communicate these insights effectively, you need to display environmental data in GIS in a way that is clear, accurate, and engaging. In this article, you will learn some tips and techniques for creating effective GIS data visualizations for environmental data.

1 Choose the right data type and format

The first step to display environmental data in GIS is to choose the right data type and format for your purpose and audience. Environmental data can be classified into three main types: vector, raster, and attribute. Vector data represents discrete features, such as points, lines, and polygons, that have a specific location and shape. Raster data represents continuous phenomena, such as elevation, temperature, and precipitation, that have a value for each cell in a grid. Attribute data represents additional information, such as names, categories, and statistics, that can be linked to vector or raster data. Depending on the type and format of your data, you can use different tools and methods to display it in GIS.

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Donya Azhand
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According to your objective you list the data you need. All types of data in GIS can be categoriesed in 3 classes ( 1.Vector-based ( such as shape file and so on), 2. raster-based data( in continuous grids network form such as images,DEMs and DEM-based products such as Slope and aspect, such topography data and other raster maps; and 3. Other data which can be converted to vector or raster types ( such as attributes, graphs, paper maps, GPS data and so on)). In the next step, you can select the relevant tools to analyze, model, map, report, and so on. Notice that, in many cases various type of data can be displayed in a same limitation that each of them is presenting and demonstrating some properties and info about that same object area.

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2 Use appropriate symbols and colors

The next step to display environmental data in GIS is to use appropriate symbols and colors to represent your data and convey your message. Symbols and colors can help you highlight patterns, trends, relationships, and differences in your data. However, they can also create confusion, distortion, or bias if used incorrectly. Therefore, you should follow some general principles when choosing symbols and colors for your GIS data visualization. For example, you should use symbols that are relevant, consistent, and proportional to your data. You should also use colors that are contrasting, harmonious, and meaningful to your data.

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Swaroop Humane, PMP®

Project Manager | PMP® | CSM® | SAFe® 6.0 Agilist | Prince2® | ITIL® | Agile Scrum Master
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To effectively display environmental data in GIS, use suitable symbols and colors to represent different features like vegetation or pollution levels. For instance, green might indicate healthy vegetation, while red could signify areas with high pollution. This visual representation helps users understand and interpret the data more easily.

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3 Apply spatial analysis and statistics

The third step to display environmental data in GIS is to apply spatial analysis and statistics to enhance your data and reveal new insights. Spatial analysis and statistics can help you measure, compare, and relate your data in different ways. For example, you can use spatial analysis and statistics to calculate distances, areas, densities, buffers, overlays, hotspots, clusters, and correlations in your data. You can also use spatial analysis and statistics to create derived or aggregated data, such as indices, ratios, percentages, and averages. By applying spatial analysis and statistics, you can display environmental data in GIS in a more informative and meaningful way.

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Swaroop Humane, PMP®

Project Manager | PMP® | CSM® | SAFe® 6.0 Agilist | Prince2® | ITIL® | Agile Scrum Master
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Effectively presenting environmental data in GIS includes using spatial analysis and statistics to uncover patterns or trends. This approach helps identify areas with particular environmental conditions or concerns, such as pollution or biodiversity. Analyzing the data spatially provides insights into the interactions between various factors across the landscape.

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4 Add labels and legends

The fourth step to display environmental data in GIS is to add labels and legends to explain your data and visualization. Labels and legends can help you provide context, definitions, and references for your data and symbols. However, they can also clutter or distract from your visualization if used excessively or poorly. Therefore, you should follow some general guidelines when adding labels and legends to your GIS data visualization. For example, you should use labels and legends that are concise, clear, and readable. You should also use labels and legends that are relevant, accurate, and consistent with your data and visualization.

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5 Consider scale and projection

The fifth step to display environmental data in GIS is to consider scale and projection for your data and visualization. Scale and projection can affect how your data and visualization are displayed and interpreted in GIS. Scale refers to the ratio between the size of a feature on the map and its actual size on the ground. Projection refers to the method of transforming the three-dimensional surface of the earth onto a two-dimensional map. Depending on the scale and projection of your data and visualization, you can encounter different issues, such as distortion, generalization, accuracy, and resolution. Therefore, you should choose a scale and projection that are suitable for your data and visualization.

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Swaroop Humane, PMP®

Project Manager | PMP® | CSM® | SAFe® 6.0 Agilist | Prince2® | ITIL® | Agile Scrum Master
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To effectively show environmental data in GIS, think about how much detail you need (scale) and how the map shows the Earth's surface (projection). Getting these right helps make sure the map accurately represents the environment and is easy to understand.

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6 Evaluate and refine your visualization

The final step to display environmental data in GIS is to evaluate and refine your visualization based on your purpose and audience. Evaluation and refinement can help you improve the quality, usability, and effectiveness of your GIS data visualization. To evaluate and refine your visualization, you can use different methods, such as feedback, testing, and comparison. For example, you can ask for feedback from your audience or experts, test your visualization for functionality and usability, and compare your visualization with other examples or standards. By evaluating and refining your visualization, you can display environmental data in GIS in a more optimal and impactful way.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Swaroop Humane, PMP®

Project Manager | PMP® | CSM® | SAFe® 6.0 Agilist | Prince2® | ITIL® | Agile Scrum Master
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When showing environmental data in GIS, it's important to think about things that are usually forgotten, such as how good the data is, where it came from, and how certain we are about it. Paying attention to these details makes our maps and analyses more trustworthy and useful.

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How can you effectively display environmental data in GIS?

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1 Choose the right data type and format

2 Use appropriate symbols and colors

3 Apply spatial analysis and statistics

4 Add labels and legends

5 Consider scale and projection

6 Evaluate and refine your visualization

7 Here’s what else to consider

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

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How can you effectively display environmental data in GIS?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose the right data type and format

2 Use appropriate symbols and colors

3 Apply spatial analysis and statistics

4 Add labels and legends

5 Consider scale and projection

6 Evaluate and refine your visualization

7 Here’s what else to consider

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Rate this article

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