GIS stands for Geographic Information System. It is a system designed to capture, store, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data. GIS combines both hardware and software components to integrate various types of data such as maps, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and tabular data with spatial locations.

The primary purpose of GIS is to enable users to visualize, interpret, and analyze data related to specific geographic locations or areas. It allows users to explore relationships, patterns, and trends within the data, as well as make informed decisions based on spatial analysis. 

Here are some key aspects of GIS:

1. Data Collection: GIS involves gathering various types of data related to geographic features and attributes. This can include information like land use, population density, elevation, transportation networks, and more. Data can be collected through surveys, remote sensing techniques, GPS, and other methods. 

2. Data Storage and Management: GIS utilizes databases to store and organize spatial and attribute data. These databases can handle large volumes of information and provide efficient retrieval and management capabilities.

3. Data Analysis: GIS offers powerful analysis tools to manipulate and process data. It enables spatial queries, overlays, buffering, modeling, and statistical analysis. This allows users to derive insights, identify patterns, and make predictions based on the data.

4. Data Visualization: GIS provides tools for visually representing geographic data through maps, charts, graphs, and other graphical elements. Visualization helps in better understanding and communication of spatial information.

5. Decision Making: GIS supports decision-making processes by providing spatial context and insights. It aids in planning, resource allocation, environmental assessment, emergency management, market analysis, and many other applications across various industries.

GIS finds applications in numerous fields, including urban planning, environmental management, transportation, agriculture, natural resource management, emergency response, real estate, and public health.