GIS Employment: ArcGIS ERDAS and ENVI vs Other Platforms like QGIS and MapInfo

As a graduate in Geography Information Systems (GIS), gaining proficiency in ArcGIS ERDAS and ENVI undoubtedly provides a strong foundation for the job market. These platforms are widely used and respected in the industry. However, the necessity to learn additional platforms such as QGIS or MapInfo can vary based on several factors.

Industry Requirements

Different industries and organizations have specific software preferences. For example, public sector agencies may rely more on open-source tools like QGIS due to cost and flexibility, while private sector firms might favor ArcGIS because of its comprehensive features and extensive support.

Job Descriptions

It is crucial to review job postings in your desired field. Many positions may require or prefer experience with QGIS or other platforms, which can enhance your employability. For instance, familiarity with QGIS is often beneficial as it is widely adopted and supported by a vibrant community.

Project Needs

Some projects may require specific tools for certain functionalities. Having familiarity with multiple platforms can offer flexibility and adaptability in your work. This diversity can be a significant asset, especially in a rapidly evolving GIS landscape.

Open-Source Trends

There is a growing trend towards open-source solutions in GIS. Learning QGIS, for instance, can be particularly advantageous as it is widely adopted and supported by a vibrant community. Open-source software can also help in reducing costs for organizations.

Skill Development

Understanding different platforms can broaden your skill set and make you more adaptable. This adaptability is a valuable asset in the current job market. While proficiency in ArcGIS ERDAS and ENVI is valuable, expanding your skill set to include QGIS and possibly other platforms can enhance your job prospects and adaptability in the field.

In summary, the choice of tool does matter, but it is often not the primary factor in selecting potential new employees. What is more crucial is the capacity to solve spatial problems quickly and effectively. Having a well-rounded ArcGIS experience is a significant plus, as it can be easily expanded into other ecosystems.

Learning a new GIS software well can take a remarkably short time. For example, if you are already proficient in ArcGIS, learning QGIS or MapInfo may only take one to two weeks. Becoming a power user of these platforms could take around three to six months. Additionally, developing new tools using QGIS Python and MapInfo MapBasic can be incredibly beneficial.

Learning Polyvalency vs. Focused Skillsets

There are different ways to learn software: by focusing on its functions or on its menus. If you focus on the menus, you will likely face more problems in professional life. On the other hand, if you are familiar with the functions, you can use most of the GIS software without any problems, as it typically just takes a few days to adapt.

For instance, knowing how to create a query and the logic behind it means you can easily find the relevant menu for operations. Performing an intersect query just requires finding the correct menu. What is critical is understanding the functions and their parameters.

Personally, I prefer PostGIS, a command-line tool, because writing a query and displaying it on QGIS can be very effective. Within the same sentence, you are able to do multiple operations together. The key is mastering the functions and their parameters.

Evolution of Software Preferences in the Private Sector

The trend in the private sector is moving towards open-source software. Many companies buy a few licenses and use open-source software for most of their general tasks, such as displaying data and modifying it, which accounts for 90% of the job requirements. In cases where you get stuck, you can use the licensed software, but it is not common.

Therefore, the days of knowing one software and using it throughout your career are largely over. The modern economy is focused on reducing costs, and familiarity with a range of tools is becoming more valuable.