GIS - Software

Many companies have adopted the software from ESRI for use in their GIS work. It was essential for ITECO that any software we use have the ability to read and write files which are compatible with the various components of the ESRI system - ArcInfo, ArcGIS, ArcView and so on.

We decided to use an open source package called GRASS - Geographic Resources Analysis Support System developed originally in the US but now being developed by an international group.

GRASS is a raster/vector GIS, image processing system, and graphics production system. It contains over 350 programs and tools to render maps and images on monitor and paper; manipulate raster, vector, and sites data; process multi spectral image data; and create, manage, and store spatial data. GRASS uses both an intuitive window interface as well as command line syntax for ease of operations. GRASS can interface with commercial printers, plotters, digitizers, and databases to develop new data as well as manage existing data.

Because it is open source, many modules have been written for use with the main GRASS suite and there is a large amount of documentation, information and user support available in a variety of languages.

In addition it allows for customised data editing and production using Bash or Perl scripts during runtime. A number of features are currently under development but the product is being utilised by ITECO on projects currently being undertaken for external clients.

The links below provide a good introduction to GRASS:
General GRASS information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Books and Tutorials on Grass

If you are considering implementing a GIS, we can advise you on the pros and cons of GRASS and other GIS software. Contact us for more information.