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Overview
QGIS which stands for Quantum GIS, is an open source geographic information system that can be downloaded free.
ESRI vs QGIS
QGIS compatibility with ArcGIS: both can handle the most common spatial data formats however QGIS consumes all types of data formats. In terms of functions extensibility, both QGIS and ArcGIS functionality can be extended through plugins and extensions respectively. Each software has support system through user community and ArcGIS has technical support system for its products. Read more>>
Comparison of GIS functions and which software is best suited
For a more detailed comparison follow the links below:
Comparing ArcGIS Desktop and QGIS provides a detailed comparison in terms of software functionality with some basic examples
If you are an ArcGIS user you might find this article comparing the 27 Differences Between ArcGIS and QGIS useful: https://gisgeography.com/qgis-arcgis-differences/
Advanced functions that can be done with QGIS rather than ESRI Advanced Licence: in the absence of the right extensions or advanced license of ESRI, below are some of the functionalities that can be done with QGIS:
Functions | QGIS | ArcMap |
Erase: creates a feature class by overlaying the Input Features with the polygons of the Erase Features.
| Use the geoprocessing tool Difference. You can access it through Vector>Geoprocessing Tools> Difference | Erase tool is available only with advanced ERSI ESRI license |
Zonal Statistics: calculates statistics on values of a raster within the zones of another dataset. The most common function IMOs use this tool is to extract population density from WorldPop image by COD-AB | In QGIS, the Zonal statistics tool which is located under the Raster Analysis toolbox does a similar function just like the ArcMap See the link for steps | In ArcMap, Spatial Analyst extension is needed to carry out zonal statistics functions. See the link for steps: |
Hill shading of Digital Elevation Models (DEM) Most used to enhance three-dimensional appearance of reference maps. | QGIS allows to visualize elevation data as hill shade without the user needing to create a separate hill shade raster. See tutorial | 3D Analyst or Spatial Analyst extension is needed to make hill shade raster. Users need to calculate hill shade raster using the Hillshade tool. |
Outputs/Resources
Templates
QGIS styles - including layers created based on the OCHA Design Guidance
Creating Maps, Styles and Layouts in QGIS Using OCHA style Manual
A useful beginner video
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