Geographic information systems (GIS) are incredibly broad and complex, with numerous applications for a wide range of industries. Most GIS functions depend on robust spatial data. This data represents the position of objects in space and how they relate to each other and their surroundings (as well as certain non-geographical data). Spatial data in GIS projects also helps with planning and analysis.

Doing so effectively further requires keen use of spatial data visualisation techniques. Like many graphical AEC and land-planning purposes, large format printing is an indispensable means of presenting spatial data and making GIS plans more engaging.

Spatial data, broadly, refers to any information that directly relates to a geometrical space or, most commonly, geographical areas. There are many types of spatial data in GIS, ranging from simple geographic coordinates to elaborate, photo-realistic modelling and aerial photography.

While mapping is one of the main applications, spatial data can also relate to functions as broad as:

• Analysing geographical patterns
• Correlating geographical data with historical, weather, and other contextual data
• Remote sensing objects for spatial analysis (as with the "Internet of Things")
• Transportation and logistics

Advances in spatial data mining and visualisation software have dramatically expanded sources for GIS data. Modern spatial data structures in GIS must often consolidate an extremely broad range of geospatial, temporal, graphical, and other information. These data points come from maps, drones, satellites, signalling devices, weather stations, and much more,

All these functions share an ongoing need to consolidate and present such data in the clearest, most vivid, and most precise way. The breadth involved also underlines the importance of accommodating the widest possible range of spatial data in GIS large format printing.

There are many spatial data types in GIS that are important for AEC printing professionals to know. The two main categories of spatial data are:

1. Vectors, consisting of points, lines, and polygons
2. Raster, which plots various data points in a grid-like format

There are numerous types of raster and vector file types, each with their own specific applications. Certain common graphical formats (such as JPEG, PNG, and BMP) also support GIS functions.

No matter what spatial data types you use in GIS projects, they must be converted to a single format at the time of printing. You can accomplish this using almost any popular GIS software (such as QGIS or ArcGIS) for all but the most complex applications.

Spatial data visualisation is any graphical depiction of spatial data in GIS applications. Options include maps, travel and logistics, and any correlating data (to cite just several examples out of an almost infinite amount). Some spatial data visualisation methods are application-specific, such as real-time traffic reporting. But others are more generic and accommodate a wider range of spatial data types.

The vast majority of work that goes into interpreting spatial data structures in GIS must eventually be distilled into an accurate graphical representation. As sophisticated as digital GIS visualisations have become, numerous spatial data applications depend on large format prints.

Large format printing makes it much easier to exchange and reference GIS data, free of technological barriers or clunky screen navigation. Because spatial data types in GIS vary widely, it's important that your large format printer effectively displays:

• Geospatial coordinates and other raster data points with pinpoint precision
• Circular arcs and vector lines with the absolute least possible amount of "pixelation"
• Ultra-high-resolution satellite and aerial photography
• Maximum accuracy between RGB and CMYK colour formats to translate screen graphics to hard-copy visualisations

Large format printing is one of two main formats for visualising spatial data. The other is, most broadly, digital displays. This, in turn, includes many other methods like fixed images, auto-updating records, and interactive graphical models.

No one visualisation method is "the best" except within the context of each particular purpose. It's far better to determine which type of spatial data visualisation is most suitable for a given application.

That said, large format printing is generally preferred when the spatial data is finalised and the technicians and/or stakeholders require a tangible and consistent point of reference. Physical prints also create a more professional image. Sensitive data is much easier to secure with physical copies than digital files (especially on networks).

Large format printing is one of the most effective ways to improve data visualisation, communication, and decision-making among GIS professionals and their industry partners. Higher-quality prints not only improve accuracy and planning but directly translate to higher KPIs and accelerated growth.

Large format printers equally suited for technical applications and graphical displays easily provide the most attractive and descriptive presentations of the spatial data your project goals depend on.

Spatial data structures in GIS push the limits on how much complexity a print can fit into a limited amount of space. Yet it's necessary to present that data within some usable limit because spatial data is a mere representation of complex real-world phenomena.

The solution is securing the highest-resolution large format printing technology available that's designed for optimal ink, paper, and finishing materials.

Being able to hold spatial data and run your eyes across the full width of the page directly engages viewers. It provides a stronger impression while giving the information and the project itself a sense of longevity.

Sharing your vision often requires more than just sharing files. Seeing spatial data that's critical to a GIS project's success makes it easy to support a collaborative air during painstakingly prepared presentations. A polished large format print makes all the difference.

A hard copy representing key spatial data lends a more professional image. It helps stakeholders and investors see your vision with ease and clarity. Once you've finalised spatial data structures in GIS projects, there's little reason to present them as digital files unless you have a specific reason for doing so.

It's much easier to coordinate plans based on GIS spatial data when you see it all laid out in full. Continually scrolling and zooming on a small screen can be distracting. Also, it's nearly impossible to see an entire GIS image (rather than separate portions) at its highest fidelity on a screen.

Large format prints also help land planners, civil engineers, and related professionals maintain visual continuity. Seeing small portions of a map and other spatial data forces the viewer to mentally "stitch" together different portions of the image. This can lead to inaccuracies, misrepresentations, and a less effective strategy.

Physical prints are more inviting for less technical parties. They may feel distracted and out of their element when forced to engage with spatial data through virtual means.

GIS project success hinges on the right data at the right time and not simply more data. Large format prints often require distilling huge volumes of spatial data into a user-friendly medium.

With cutting-edge large format printing technology from HP, you can synchronise your entire spatial data and other GIS printing tasks for maximum ease and improved workflows. Then, at the moment of truth, it's easy to verify the final print file with key decision-makers using the printers' networking functions.

Spatial data in GIS applications can be extremely complex, involving many layers of context-dependent data from virtually unlimited sources. By centering your GIS workflows around enterprise-grade large format printers, you'll secure greater long-term consistency and clarity of vision on even the most complex GIS projects.

Contact an HP sales expert for guidance in selecting the most appropriate large format printer technology, and experience the benefits of displaying your spatial GIS projects with impeccable accuracy in full, vivid detail.