"This authoratitive book offers an up-to-date introduction to the world of Geographical Information Systems. It is designed to be easy to use for students at all levels, from undergraduates to professionals retraining in GIS. " "The book focuses on the practical applications of GIS, and considers how the technology works. Each chapter addresses a specific theme and is backed up with examples, case studies, directed reading and additional resources on a Web site. The book can be used to give the reader a quick tour through the world of GIS, to help the reader develop a thorough understanding of GIS or as a source of reference information. " "Introduction to Geographical Information Systems is an ideal text for undergraduates, postgraduates and professionals following courses in GIS. It has been adopted as a set text for the international UNGIS Postgraduate Diploma in GIS by distance learning. "--BOOK JACKET.