1990 to 2010 – User Proliferation
Users are starting to adopt GIS technology in different ways. Classrooms, businesses, governments around the world are starting to harness digital mapping and analysis.
All the ingredients were ready for the infiltration of GIS to the people:
Cheaper, faster and more powerful computersMultiple software options and data availabilityThe launch of new satellites and integration of remote sensing technology
1990 to 2010 was the period in the history of GIS when it really took off.
But advancements in the technology have surpassed the average user. GIS users didn’t know how to take full advantage of GIS technology. Companies were hesitant to adopt GIS software. Countries didn’t have access to topographical data.
But over time, these issues were laid to rest.
Gradually, the importance of spatial analysis for decision-making was becoming recognized. Slowly, GIS was being introduced to classrooms and companies. Software was able to handle both vector and raster data. With more satellites being launched into orbit, this data collected from space could be consumed in a GIS.
This in unison with the availability of global position systems gave users more tools than they’ve ever had before. Like the flick of a switch, GPS selective availability was turned off. Suddenly, accuracy has changed from the size of an airport to the size of a small shed. GPS has led the way to great innovative products like car navigation systems and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The floodgates for GIS and GPS developments began opening. This brings us to our next stage of development in the history of GIS: the open source explosion.