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Ideal Workplace Solutions
NITA AccreditedIntermediatePhysical + Virtual10 daysIOSGT

Training on Introduction to Open Source GIS Tools

Master open-source GIS tools like QGIS and GRASS GIS. Learn to analyze geospatial data, create maps, and conduct spatial analysis.

Next intake

20 Jul 2026 · Nakuru

View all dates

Duration

10 days

Live instruction

Delivery

Physical + Virtual

Cohort based

Level

Intermediate

Working professionals

Certification

NITA reimbursable

For Kenyan cohorts

Language

English

All materials

Overview

About this programme

This course provides an introduction to the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) using open-source tools. Participants will explore key concepts, applications, and the use of popular open-source GIS software like QGIS, GRASS GIS, and PostGIS. The course emphasizes hands-on experience, allowing participants to learn how to create, analyze, and visualize geospatial data. By the end of the course, participants will be well-equipped to apply GIS techniques in various fields such as environmental management, urban planning, and resource management using freely available tools.

Course Duration

10 Days

Who Should Attend

  • GIS beginners looking to learn about open-source GIS tools
  • Environmental scientists and urban planners interested in geospatial analysis
  • Students and researchers needing to incorporate GIS into their projects
  • Professionals in natural resource management, agriculture, or related fields
  • IT and data professionals wanting to expand their skills to include GIS
Learning outcomes

What you'll walk away with

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of GIS.
  • Navigate and utilize popular open-source GIS software such as QGIS, GRASS GIS, and PostGIS.
  • Create and manage geospatial data, including vector and raster data.
  • Perform spatial analysis and geoprocessing using open-source tools.
  • Design and produce high-quality maps and visualizations.
  • Integrate GIS with other data sources and software.
  • Apply GIS techniques in various real-world scenarios.
  • Understand the benefits and challenges of using open-source GIS tools.
  • Explore the potential of open-source GIS in various fields.
  • Develop the ability to troubleshoot common issues in open-source GIS environments.
Course modules

What we cover, module by module

Module 1: Foundations of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

  • Introduction to GIS concepts, components, and applications
  • Understanding spatial thinking and geographic data
  • Types of GIS data: vector, raster, and attribute data
  • Coordinate systems, map projections, and georeferencing
  • Overview of GIS applications in sectors such as agriculture, health, environment, urban planning, and disaster management
  • Introduction to spatial data standards and metadata
  • Case Study: Using GIS to map public health service coverage in rural communities
  • Practical Exercise: Installing QGIS and exploring basic GIS datasets and map layers

Module 2: Open-Source GIS Platforms and Tools

  • Overview of open-source GIS ecosystems and communities
  • Introduction to QGIS, GRASS GIS, and OpenStreetMap
  • Installing and configuring GIS software
  • Understanding plugins and extensions in QGIS
  • Comparing open-source GIS tools with proprietary GIS platforms
  • Managing GIS projects and workspace settings
  • Case Study: Implementing a low-cost GIS solution for county-level planning
  • Practical Exercise: Installing QGIS plugins and customizing the GIS workspace

Module 3: Spatial Data Collection and Management

  • Sources of spatial data: GPS, drones, satellites, surveys, and open data portals
  • Downloading and importing spatial datasets
  • Data cleaning, validation, and preprocessing techniques
  • Managing shapefiles, GeoJSON, raster images, and geodatabases
  • Data quality assessment and metadata documentation
  • Creating and editing vector data in QGIS
  • Case Study: Collecting and managing geospatial data for infrastructure mapping
  • Practical Exercise: Creating, editing, and organizing spatial datasets in QGIS

Module 4: Spatial Analysis Techniques

  • Introduction to spatial analysis concepts and workflows
  • Buffering, clipping, overlay, dissolve, and intersection analysis
  • Proximity and network analysis techniques
  • Raster analysis and terrain modeling
  • Interpolation and hotspot analysis
  • Spatial querying and attribute filtering
  • Case Study: GIS-based analysis of flood-prone areas for disaster preparedness
  • Practical Exercise: Performing overlay and buffer analysis using QGIS tools

Module 5: Map Design and Spatial Visualization

  • Principles of effective cartographic design
  • Creating thematic maps and dashboards
  • Working with symbology, labels, legends, and layouts
  • Designing choropleth, heat, and density maps
  • Using charts and infographics within GIS maps
  • Exporting and sharing professional GIS outputs
  • Case Study: Designing interactive maps for environmental monitoring projects
  • Practical Exercise: Developing a professional thematic map using QGIS Layout Manager

Module 6: Introduction to GRASS GIS and Advanced Analysis

  • Understanding GRASS GIS architecture and functionality
  • Raster and vector processing in GRASS GIS
  • Terrain and hydrological analysis
  • Land suitability and environmental modeling
  • Integrating GRASS GIS with QGIS workflows
  • Advanced geoprocessing techniques
  • Case Study: Terrain analysis for watershed and land-use planning
  • Practical Exercise: Conducting slope, aspect, and elevation analysis using GRASS GIS

Module 7: OpenStreetMap and Community Mapping

  • Introduction to OpenStreetMap (OSM) concepts and principles
  • Crowdsourced mapping and collaborative GIS
  • Editing and contributing data to OpenStreetMap
  • Downloading and integrating OSM data into GIS projects
  • Humanitarian and disaster-response mapping initiatives
  • Data validation and quality control in OSM
  • Case Study: Community mapping for humanitarian response and emergency planning
  • Practical Exercise: Editing roads, buildings, and points of interest in OpenStreetMap

Module 8: Web Mapping and Online GIS Applications

  • Introduction to web GIS and cloud-based mapping
  • Publishing maps online using open-source tools
  • Creating interactive web maps and dashboards
  • GIS data sharing and online collaboration
  • Integrating GIS with mobile applications and GPS devices
  • Introduction to GIS web services and APIs
  • Case Study: Developing a web-based GIS dashboard for project monitoring
  • Practical Exercise: Publishing an interactive map online using QGIS and web mapping tools

Module 9: GIS Automation and Spatial Modeling

  • Automating GIS workflows and repetitive tasks
  • Introduction to Python scripting for GIS
  • Using the QGIS Processing Toolbox and Model Builder
  • Batch geoprocessing and workflow optimization
  • Spatial modeling for decision support systems
  • Introduction to geospatial machine learning concepts
  • Case Study: Automating land-use analysis for regional development planning
  • Practical Exercise: Building an automated GIS workflow using Model Builder and Python scripts

Module 10: GIS Applications, Case Studies, and Capstone Project

  • GIS applications in agriculture, health, environment, logistics, and urban planning
  • Spatial decision-making and policy support using GIS
  • Emerging trends in GIS: drones, AI, IoT, and smart cities
  • Ethical considerations and data privacy in GIS projects
  • Best practices for GIS project implementation and management
  • Case Study: Multi-sector GIS implementation for sustainable development planning
  • Practical Exercise: Developing and presenting a complete GIS project addressing a real-world problem
Impact

Where the change lands

Organisational Impact

  • Reduces software licensing costs by adopting powerful open-source GIS solutions.

  • Strengthens institutional capacity for geospatial analysis without heavy financial investment.

  • Enhances flexibility and scalability in managing projects using widely supported open-source platforms.

  • Builds self-reliance by equipping staff with skills to customize and integrate GIS tools as needed.

  • Supports sustainable development initiatives by making geospatial technology accessible and affordable.

Personal Impact

  • Equips participants with practical skills in using popular open-source GIS software such as QGIS, GRASS GIS, and PostGIS.

  • Expands career opportunities by adding open-source GIS expertise to professional skill sets.

  • Builds confidence in applying GIS techniques across various sectors using cost-effective tools.

  • Provides hands-on experience in creating, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial data.

  • Empowers participants to implement GIS solutions independently, regardless of resource constraints.

Dates and locations

Upcoming intakes

Every intake is limited to a small cohort. Booking closes when a date fills or three weeks before the start, whichever comes first.

Full calendar
FAQs

Common questions.

Still not sure? Send us a note and a facilitator will get back to you within a business day.

The goal is to provide a solid foundation in open-source GIS tools. You'll learn to create, edit, and analyze spatial data using free software, which is a key part of our focus on innovation.

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