This book presents an accessible introduction to the history, principles and techniques of GIS, with a unique focus on socioeconomic applications. With frequent reference to illustrations, this non-technical overview of GIS explores the collection, input, storage, manipulation and output of data in GIS and addresses the needs of students and professionals who must understand and use GIS for the first time.

This second edition builds on the strengths of the first. Taking account of recent advances in GIS development and major new socioeconomic datasets (including new census data), it explores more fully the contribution of GIS to geography and their power in influencing our environment.