Question

Why is data layering (information layers) important in a GIS?

Answer 1

What is Data Layering
A lot of GIS systems could allow for the separation of different geographic features in logical categories. These categories are called map layers. Each of these layers contains information taken from one geographic feature or from a selected small group that has related features. Because data is separated in layers, they can be easily manipulated and spatially analyzed

Answer 2

GIS is a system that processes graphical and non-graphical (alphanumeric) data with emphasis on spatial analysis and surface modeling. It is a spatially indexed database, on which operates a set of procedures for answering queries about spatial entities.

A GIS handles the following data types:

• Data from various source sources and formats presented, with spatial relationships to each other (topology - structure of spatial relationships that can be established between geographic objects).
• Data can be broadly separated into thematic maps, cadastral maps (object maps), networks, images, and numerical terrain models.