Final answer:
GIS and computer-based systems facilitate the integration, management, and analysis of spatial data, revolutionizing cartography and various scientific fields by providing detailed visual representations and analytics for decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
GIS and other computer-based systems allow integration, management, and analysis of spatial data. GIS, or Geographic Information Systems, involves using computer programs to compile and manipulate various layers of map data, each representing different spatial information. These layers can be selectively displayed or analyzed to highlight specific features or patterns useful in various domains such as urban planning, environmental science, and business location planning. Over time, GIS has become an essential tool in cartography, transforming how we create maps and understand spatial relationships.
For instance, in business applications, GIS can be used to analyze population distribution, transport networks, and existing retail locations to determine optimal places for new stores. Similarly, in environmental science, it can illustrate changes in land use over time, helping to inform conservation efforts. The power of GIS lies in its ability to visualize and interpret complex spatial data, aiding in decision-making and in understanding the dynamics of our physical and social worlds.