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Geospatial technology is a broad term that describes various software and hardware used to create and manage location information. A map is what most people envision when learning about geospatial technology or GIS (Geographic Information System) -- although the map is typically the end result following a complex set of tools and processes seeking to answer a question.

GIS is now a ubiquitous technology found in everyday products such as Google Maps. These products integrate various streams of data as well as allowing the user to query location information. GIS is not just a tool for navigation nor is it only provided by large tech companies - it is used by students and professionals in virtually every industry to add spatial awareness to their research and operations in order to gain a better understanding as well as aid in decision-making and engagement.

Esri is the industry leader in GIS software and makers of ArcGIS, a powerful spatial data analytics and mapping tool. UCSF Real Estate provides Esri software and products at no cost to all university employees with a valid ID. To acquire an Esri license please use the Geospatial Support Request form.

Esri licensing has guidelines for research and administrative use. Please click here to read more.

Mapping technology has evolved quite rapidly in the past five years creating new opportunities to share data online. Javascript libraries and APIs from various mapping companies enable viewing large datasets in the browser with visually appealing and beautiful graphs.

If your department or program is exploring a project to develop online maps then please consider requesting a brief consultation from Geospatial @ UCSF to review your requirements and scope before working with a vendor. Request Consultation

The vision for this website is to become the hub of all-things geospatial at UCSF. The program is nearing the completion of Phase 1 and beginning development of Phase 2. The highlights of each intended phase is listed below, subject to change.

Have an idea for Geospatial@UCSF that should be considered? Let us know.