Geographical Problem Analysis

Evaluate uses for secondary data sets and official statistics.

Evaluate how “hot spots” of crime are addressed by proactive policing.

Crime Hotspot Government Resource (Click Here)

Explain how modern technology enhances criminal justice problem solving.

Online Resources

CHNA.org is a free, web-based utility to assist hospitals, non-profit community-based organizations, state and local health departments, financial institutions, and engaged citizens in understanding the needs and assets of their communities. It is provided by Community Commons, which offers over 7000 GIS data layers at state, county, zip code, block group, tract, and point-levels, contextualized mapping, visualization, analytic, impact and communication tools and apps, and searchable profiles of hundreds of place-based community initiatives. CHNA.org expands on the capabilities of Community Commons, offering not only comprehensive GIS mapping, but also analytic and reporting tools to facilitate the assessment of community health needs and assets that are critical to shaping and investing in the health and well-being of our communities.

The Distressed Communities Index (DCI) is a customized dataset created by EIG examining economic distress throughout the country and made up of interactive maps, infographics, and a report. It captures data from more than 25,000 zip codes (those with populations over 500 people). In all, it covers 99 percent — 312 million — of Americans.

GeoCommunity, a site offering information and free data downloads.

Geographic Information Systems. Lots of information, links, and explanations.

International Geospatial and Attribute Links. Links to data sources from all 50 states, from the University of Arkansas.

“Introduction to Data Analysis Using Geographic Information Systems,” by Daniel L. Falbo, Lloyd P. Queen, and Charles R. Blinn, on the website of the University of Minnesota Extension Service.

National Park Service data clearinghouse.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Maps of renewable energy sources in the U.S.

National Spatial Database. GIS data on various issues from the Center for Advanced Spatial Technology (CAST) at the University of Arkansas.

The U.S. Census. An enormous amount of information, as well as TIGER maps and products.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Environmental data.

The U.S. Geological Survey, with its store of map data.

Software companies:

Autodesk (Map3D software)

ESRI (Arc line of GIS software)

Intergraph (GeoMedia software)

Pitney Bowes (MapInfo software)

The Wichita Community Food Assessment evaluated the food systems serving the city, and their capacity to provide access, in Wichita food deserts. Why we should care.