Modern Geographical Maps and Geospatial Technologies and Their Role in Supporting Planning and Development Decisions – An Analytical and Applied Study

Prof. Dr. Azhar Hussein  Razuqi; Asst. Lecturer Mohamed Mahdi Hussein  Ali

doi:10.51699/cajotas.v6i4.1603

Prof. Dr. Azhar Hussein Razuqi Department of Applied Geography, College of Arts, University of Kirkuk, Iraq.
Asst. Lecturer Mohamed Mahdi Hussein Ali University of Kirkuk, College of Education for Human Sciences.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51699/cajotas.v6i4.1603

Keywords: Geographical Maps, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), Spatial Analysis, Development Planning, Digital Thematic Maps

Abstract

Considering the digital and information revolution witnessed globally, reliance on spatial data through modern geographical maps and technologies has become a fundamental element in planning and decision-making processes. Maps have evolved from being traditional descriptive tools into dynamic analytical systems that represent and interpret spatial reality in interactive and precise ways. The emergence of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and the Global Positioning System (GPS) has brought about a qualitative shift in understanding and analyzing geographical phenomena. Today, maps are no longer static documents used solely for guidance and location determination; they have become advanced analytical tools capable of integrating massive amounts of data, processing them, and presenting results that serve urban planning, resource management, sustainable development, disaster response, and other geospatial applications. Thus, it becomes essential to study the relationship between modern geographical maps and geospatial technologies to identify their potential in improving planning performance and enhancing spatial vision for decision-makers. This research aims to systematically investigate this integration by tracing the development of maps, analyzing the role of GIS and related technologies, and presenting a practical application on a selected study area, focusing on the benefits and challenges of using these tools in developmental contexts.

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