is the degree to which information on a map or in a digital database matches true or accepted values. Accuracy is an issue pertaining to the quality of data and the number of errors contained in a dataset or map. In discussing a GIS database, it is possible to consider horizontal and vertical accuracy with respect to geographic position, as well as [..]

,

is a procedure used to solve a mathematical or computational problem or to address a data processing issue. In the latter sense, an algorithm is a set of step-by-step commands or instructions designed to reach a particular goal. AM/FM

is an abbreviation for American National Standards Institute. ANSI standards have been established for many elements of computer systems to aid research and development. The existence of standards allows designers to develop general solutions to common problems. ASCII

codes, almost all systems have import-export capabilities for translating between ASCII and binary formats. Attribute

provide the background upon which thematic data is overlayed and analyzed. As inputs into a GIS, the term base map

are standardized routines for comparing the performance of competing hardware and software under conditions intended to reflect common patterns of use. Widely used benchmark tests have been developed to compare the speed of computers. But more specific benchmark tests also may be developed by a single organization to test new equipment under condit [..]

refers to the way software and hardware is sold. Often software is sold together--bundled

refers to computer-aided design and drafting. CAD systems are used to create maps and plans and are closely related to GIS systems. Although most CAD systems lack certain features essential to GIS analysis, such as the power to manage different spatial coordinate systems and database capabilities, many CAD systems have been developed into full GIS [..]

are a system of positional reference in which location is measured along two or three orthogonal (perpendicular) axes. Every location can be defined uniquely by its X, Y, and Z coordinates. Locations in the coordinate system can be established using any unit of measurement such as meters, feet, and miles. Cartesian coordinates differ from latitude- [..]