Geographic information systems: applications and research opportunities for information systems researchers

The purpose of the paper is to provide an introduction to geographic information systems (GIS) and a research framework for information systems researchers. The paper summarizes the main GIS features, functions, and capabilities, including a research framework for GIS. In addition, several opportunities for research are suggested including those related to GIS management, organizational impacts, collaborative issues, evaluations of decision-making effectiveness, and societal impacts in both developed and developing countries.