Lab 4

My experience with ArcGIS 9.3 and the ArcMap specific tool include initial impressions of both positive and negative aspects to GIS in general. My first run through the ArcMap program I noticed and was glad that the interface retains a classic menu composition that is easy to follow unlike newer versions of other GUI-based software applications like AutoCAD and Revit Architecture. Another early positive direction of the ArcMap software is with the data view and layout view options. At first it was confusing switching between the two layouts but as more data is incorporated into the layouts it becomes easy to understand the necessity for ways to organize the layout and data together in a coherent manner. At this point the barrier to entry seems particular high with GIS-type programs not because of the pure technical difficulty but because of the feeling of a lack of direction if one were to operate the program by themselves as opposed to other design-related programs.

On the other hand ArcGIS and GIS programs in general contain unique features in incorporating data including the ability to manage data and features with ArcCatalog. The ability to add, join, and create attribute tables inside the program is simple in allowing alternate representations of data in maps. What I found intriguing and unexpected in ArcMap is the ability to hand draw and set new features similar to the way AutoCAD handles drawing lines through offsets, parallels, and angles. This is positive in allowing more flexibility on the user-end instead of focusing on pure data. The ability to also extend your data to other layouts and create dynamic tables is a positive implementation for the need of rapidly changing data well-suited for software GIS.

A few persistent issues I have with the ArcMap tool is with the Zoom In/Out and Fixed Zoom tools. Several times the command would operate beyond what is asked when clicked or would bug-out in general leading to the layout map being lost. Through careful consideration the zoom tool can be worked around. Other issues include the Back and Forward button tool which would not register every action performed as a step but only with ones deemed appropriate. This in retrospect caused several restarts of my project when I could not go back to my previous state when I messed up the Zoom feature or failed to input a data at a certain step. Issues like these with emphasis on not being able to easily retrace steps, as the tutorial even warns, is a major detriment to not just GIS software but GUI-based software in general which require such critical features to work.

ArcGIS and the ArcMap program is a powerful tool in data analysis, management and planning. The need for many institution and business to use such analysis in their day to day operation is undeniable. The advent of software-based GIS has propelled GIS in general towards a broader audience beyond just pure maps and data. Several technical issues were found in my first run through, though it could have been easily avoided. The technical barrier is also a detriment though it is expected of such GUI-based development programs as with AutoCAD and others. The necessity and positive potential of ArcGIS and ArcMap for the GIS industry is expansive in the information and data it can provide for business, government and the consumer.