Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop: The Basics of ArcView, ArcEditor, and ArcInfo Updated for ArcGIS 9 (Getting to Know series) : Book Review

"Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop" by Tim Ormsby is a must-read for anyone looking to master the ArcGIS software. It provides a comprehensive and user-friendly guide to the features and functions of ArcGIS Desktop, making it suitable for beginners and experienced users alike.

The book begins by introducing the fundamental concepts and principles of geographic information systems (GIS), ensuring that readers have a solid foundation before diving into the software. It then covers a wide range of topics, including data management, map design, spatial analysis, and geoprocessing. The step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations make it easy for readers to follow along and apply the concepts to their own projects.

One of the standout features of this book is its emphasis on practical applications. Ormsby includes numerous real-world examples and case studies, demonstrating how ArcGIS tools and techniques can be used to solve actual geographical problems. This approach helps readers understand how to apply ArcGIS in various scenarios and reinforces their learning.

In addition, the book offers valuable tips and best practices for working with ArcGIS. Ormsby shares his expert insights on data quality, troubleshooting common issues, and optimizing workflows. These tips not only enhance the learning experience but also help readers become more efficient and proficient ArcGIS users.

Overall, "Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop" is an informative and user-friendly resource for learning ArcGIS software. It caters to a wide range of readers, including students, professionals, and anyone interested in GIS. By following the comprehensive guidance in this book, readers can unlock the full potential of ArcGIS and become skilled users.

What are readers saying?

"Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop" by Tim Ormsby has been praised by readers as a comprehensive and helpful resource for learning ArcGIS Desktop, a popular geographic information system software. Many reviewers found the book's step-by-step approach to be easy to follow and understand. They appreciated the clear explanations and well-organized chapters, which enabled them to quickly grasp the fundamentals of ArcGIS. The book effectively covers various topics, including data management and spatial analysis, providing a solid foundation for using the software.

Readers highly valued the practical examples and exercises included in the book, as they helped them apply the knowledge they gained to real-world scenarios. These exercises allowed readers to develop practical skills and increased their confidence in using ArcGIS Desktop. The author's concise and user-friendly writing style was also commended by reviewers, who found the language accessible even for those without previous experience in GIS. The inclusion of screenshots and illustrations further enhanced readers' understanding of the concepts presented in the text.

While most reviewers were satisfied with the book's content, a small number expressed a desire for more advanced topics to be covered. Some readers felt that the book focused more on beginners and wished it delved deeper into certain areas. However, overall, readers still considered the book to be a solid introduction to ArcGIS Desktop.

In conclusion, "Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop" by Tim Ormsby is highly regarded by reviewers as a comprehensive and user-friendly resource for learning ArcGIS. With its step-by-step approach, practical examples, and clear explanations, the book is valuable for beginners in the field of geographic information systems.