Geographic information system and local development: Panorama assets

We live in a complex world where a wealth of information has to be processed, interpreted and explained. The manipulation of information, especially geographic information, has reached unprecedented levels. Needs of geographic data of course always existed, but it was difficult to satisfy. Today, humanity has the most sophisticated tools ever created for it to get a considerable amount of geographic information on the planet. These tools and instruments had to help manage space and phenomena behind it. The aim of this research is to shed new light on the character of geographic information and explore how it is useful for the development of a local territory. Our analysis calls for a broader vision of geographic information system (GIS) according to how it actually unfolds in the economy. This paper summarizes the genesis of the concept of GIS and some of the points on which crystallize the raised controversies. Such a perspective is needed to make the contribution of GIS to local development our concern. However, modeling such a phenomenon does not make sense if we don’t confront the theory with field experience. In this perspective, we first describe the main characteristics of geographic information. Then, we focus on the functionality of GIS in relation to the storage, analysis and visualization of geographic data. Finally, we try to focus on the place and role of GIS in local develop on three levels: territorial planning, urban dynamics and reorientation of environmental policy