Current trends in the use and implementation of Geographic Information Systems

Abstract

Currently, the use and implementation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is undergoing a rapid transformation. From the traditional way of viewing and processing geographical data through specialized desktop programs, to webGIS technology following the development of specific Web 2.0. This technology allows online interaction based on interoperability standards, also the way spatial data is presented. Thus, the integration of Artificial Intelligence, use of mobile devices and participatory GIS, the Internet of Things for real-time monitoring of environmental and anthropic components, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality for visualizing geographic data, the increase in the use of open-source software constrain the academic community and general users to accept and adapt to these new realities. Therefore, in this article, the current situation regarding the use and implementation of GIS nowadays was assessed and consequently future trends were analysed. At the same time, a questionnaire was conducted among GIS users in the Republic of Moldova to analyse their vision with regard to the subject addressed. The identified results will contribute to the curriculum content and teaching methods enhancement of subjects taught at the bachelor and master degree at Technical University of Moldova.