As a GIS analyst, you’re at a unique point in your career. It’s exciting, challenging, and as vital to the successful operation of your organization as it is exciting. You want to ensure that every decision or action you take will improve the GIS workflow and make life easier for others who work with GIS. Here are seven tips that can help you become a successful GIS analyst:

• Be a student of geography and geospatial information systems (GIS)

As a student of geography, you learn a lot about GIS. This can help you understand how GIS works because then when some questions or problems need solving, they will be easier for you to understand because of your knowledge of how the software works behind the scenes!

• Be curious about how technology works and how it can be used

Curiosity allows you to get involved. Getting involved will help you become more familiar with GIS and its applications. It will also help you meet other people with similar interests, which can be a great way to learn more about the field and make new friends.

• Be patient. It takes time to learn new software and develop your expertise.

• Build a strong foundation of theory and practice in GIS, including spatial analysis, cartography, database design, geoprocessing, and programming.

• Learn how to use ESRI products like ArcGIS (desktop or mobile), ArcMap (desktop or mobile), Esri Connect (online), or ArcGIS Online (web-based).

• Master data management skills in the form of ETL processes such as database design, data cleansing, data transformation, and data integration with other systems such as point cloud processing or 3D laser scanning systems for building models from LiDAR data sets. The thing about GIS is that it’s not just about analyzing data but also about managing it too!
• Learn how to create maps using various tools.

Every job is different, and no one method is right for everyone. It’s important to stay current with the latest technologies and software, participate in online communities and groups, or volunteer to take on projects outside of your comfort zone. You can also compete in Kaggle competitions, find mentors or leaders in the GIS field to help you along your journey, and pursue opportunities outside of your day-to-day regular job.

Join our training program to gain a solid grounding in GIS, data manipulation and analysis.