Geographic information systems (GIS) use a complex mix of cartography, statistical analysis, and database technology to provide everything from web-based interfaces, such as Bing Maps and Google Maps, to tracking applications for delivery services. With GIS Succinctly, author Peter Shaw guides you through it all, starting with a detailed examination of the data and processes that constitute the internals of a GIS. He surveys a selection of commercial and open-source software packages, detailing the strengths and weaknesses of each so you can choose one that suits your own GIS development. Shaw even provides instructions for setting up a spatially enabled database and creating a complete .NET GIS application. Complete with downloadable code samples, GIS Succinctly is the one resource you need to map your world.