Exploring the Capabilities GIS Use in Landscape Architecture NEW YORK, NY Although the first computerized use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) can be traced back to the mid-1950s where Chicago engineers utilized it in conducting a transportation study, GIS use has only recently begun to proliferate the Landscape Architecture industry. Frequently used by local government agencies, the military, and engineers, for planning, GIS in Site Design is designed to be "a user-friendly first step in exploring GIS" for Landscape Architects, addressing GIS from a standpoint that offers innovative uses of GIS, making them more accessible to design professionals. The book, written by Karen C. Hanna and R. Brian Culpepper, discusses the advantages as well as the disadvantages of GIS in Landscape Architecture, and also takes into account those who might be skeptical about using GIS in their designs. GIS uses a database to retrieve, assemble and question geographic data. The system offers maps that show exact locations of data, programs that line up maps and offer 3-D views of study areas, and performs analytical operations, manipulating, modifying, or even enhancing data to yield new maps and data. Often compared to CADD, GIS differs in many aspects. GIS can attribute databases to give life to its maps, analytical operations act on data, and georeferencing and rectification, allow maps to be accurately fitted to the Earth's surface. While GIS serves to benefit those involved with land planning, recreation planning, open space planning, visual resource analysis, or design of large scales (golf courses, parks, campuses, greenways, trails), it is not likely that it would be useful for those whose practices consists primarily of custom residential properties or sculpture gardens. Call John Wiley & Sons, Inc. at 212-850-6904 for a copy of this book.