This article analyzes the features of geographic information systems, the selection of specific software depending on the task, the peculiarities of teaching elements of the course "geographic information systems" in training. The article provides a brief history of the development of geo-information technologies, as well as modern trends and development trends. Examples of interdisciplinary connections GIS cartography and remote sensing, as well as a wide range of tasks solved with the help of

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... geographic information technologies. It describes the most widely used software, its functionality, the practice of professionals. Assess the degree of intuitive interface and GIS software problems associated with the study of GIS software specialists. The main directions of application of GIS in environmental studies, and methods of GIS application software development tools.