Helpful tools
-
BatchGeoUpload a spreadsheet of addresses to get the coordinates of up to 250 places for free. Download files as KMZ, or use the platform to host a map.
-
Map WarperGeoreference maps online. Can export as GeoTIFF, KML, and even WMS layer to use in ArcGIS Online.
-
U.S. ProjectionsFind the correct projection for places in the U.S. Note: For Chicago and Cook County, use UTM ZONE:16N.
-
GeonamesA free database that provides a latitude and longitude for more than 11 million places worldwide. An essential tool for geocoding and finding accurate placenames.
-
Color BrewerA helpful tool for choosing map colors.
-
Open RefineA great open source tool for cleaning spatial data.
Access GIS software remotely
-
Virtual Lab (vLab)The vLab has ArcGIS, GeoDa, and Google Earth Pro. To access vLab on your personal computer, see the instructions provided via the link above.
-
ArcGIS OnlineUse your browser to find, explore, and analyze spatial data. Use the Enterprise login. When prompted for the URL enter uchicago.
-
ArcGIS for DesktopThe Research Computing Center provides student copies of ArcGIS for Desktop.
Free desktop GIS software
-
GeoDaThe premier free and open-source tool for spatial analysis.
-
QGISFree and open-source GIS for creating, editing, visualizing, analyzing, and publishing spatial data.
-
Google Earth ProFree desktop software for viewing, creating, and displaying spatial data and information.
-
ggmap for RFor those familiar with R/RStudio, install the ggmap package to visualize and analyze spatial data.
Web GIS
Popular online tools:
-
ArcGIS OnlineUse your browser to find, explore, and analyze spatial data. Use the Enterprise login. When prompted for the URL enter uchicago.
-
CartoCreate maps and apps for business decision making.
-
Google MyMapsA fun tool for getting started with web mapping.
-
OpenStreetMapThe world's leading map made from crowd-sourced, local knowledge. Sign up to start editing your hometown, or get involved with humanitarian mapping.
-
Scribble MapsLike MS Paint for maps. Easy to make a simple map and export as an image.
-
StoryMap JSFrom the creators of the popular TimelineJS, present a timeline on a map.
Programming libraries for creating web maps:
Access GIS software on campus
-
Virtual Lab (vLab)The vLab has ArcGIS, GeoDa, and Google Earth Pro. To access vLab on your personal computer, see the instructions provided via the link above.
-
ArcGIS OnlineUse your browser to find, explore, and analyze spatial data. Use the Enterprise login. When prompted for the URL enter uchicago.
-
GIS Hub in the MADD Center at Crerar LibraryThere are 7 workstations in the GIS Hub with ArcGIS, QGIS, and Geoda. The CSIL computers do not have ArcGIS.
-
Regenstein Library Map CollectionLocated on the third floor of Regenstein Library, the Map Collection has ArcGIS on two computers. Check the website for hours.
-
Research Computing CenterLearn more about obtaining a license to ArcGIS at a discounted rate through the university.
GIS Software in the library
Software at the Regenstein Library Map Collection:
- ArcGIS for Desktop 10.6.1
- ArcGIS Pro 2.2.0
- ArcGIS Maps for Office (Excel, PowerPoint)
- GeoDa
- QGIS
- Google Earth Pro
- Adobe Creative Suite 5 (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
- R & R Studio
- Stata
Software at the GIS Hub in the Crerar Library has the software:
- ​ArcGIS for Desktop 10.6.1
- ArcGIS Pro 2.2.0
- GeoDa
- QGIS
- Google Earth Pro
Need help choosing a GIS?
Ask a Librarian
Contact:
Subjects: Biological Sciences, Business, Help Guides, Humanities, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences