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Santosh Panda, Chris Smith, and Anushree Badola

Maps are graphic representations of reality and help us understand and navigate the world around us. Maps can incorporate third dimension through contours, hillshading (3D modeling), and profile views.

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Maps are graphic representations of reality and help us understand and navigate the world around us. Maps can incorporate third dimension through contours, hillshading (3D modeling), and profile views.

In this course you will learn fundamentals of third dimension (3D) GIS concepts and tools to visualize, analyze, and interpret geospatial data in 3D, enabling you to reveal patterns and relationships for more effective problem-solving and decision making.

When the data include the third dimension, ArcGIS Scene allows us to navigate through the data in 3D space. This makes the data and the problem more understandable and reveals new visual insights. Visualizing and processing the data in 3D allows us to include real-world elements in the analysis such as undulation of terrain and 3D extent of trees, building, and subsurface geology.

Our world is three dimensional and many GIS applications now require 3D analysis. Esri’s ArcGIS Scene allows us to visualize data on a world sphere. It provides a variety of tools for orientation, navigation, search, data preparation, building workflows and spatial analysis.

3D mapping and visualization is used in a variety of industries and academic disciplines:

  • Monitoring forest stand height and age
  • Volumetric analysis of resource extraction from a mine or water level in a reservoir
  • Watershed delineation to assess inundation risk, land management, environmental monitoring

Verified track learners will receive one-year ArcGIS Pro Desktop (Windows) license with support only for tools used in the course in addition to unlimited course access and a verified certificate.

Sign up for this online course or full GIS Essentials certificate today to expand your skillset in geographic information systems.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to display and navigate 3d data in arcgis scene
  • How to edit and process 3d feature data
  • How to carry out volumetric analysis
  • How to display and process elevation raster (dem: digital elevation model) data
  • Watershed mapping and delineation using a dem
  • Visualization of 3d feature and raster data in arcscene

Syllabus

Week 1: 3D GIS Introduction
What is 3D GIS?
How does a GPS work?
Digital Elevation Model
Read more
Remote sensing technologies to obtain a DEM
Open source DEM products
Access to ArcGIS Pro software
Week 2: 3D Feature and Elevation Raster Analysis
3D feature data and analysis
DEM processing and analysis
Volumetric analysis
Visualizing 3D feature and raster data in ArcScene
ArcGIS Pro Best practices
Week 3: Watershed Delineation
Introduction to Watershed
Access open source DEM data from USGS Earth Explorer
Preparing DEM for watershed analysis
Delineate watershed from DEM (compare to a real river)
Week 4: Tree Height Analysis from LiDAR Data
Introduction to LiDAR
Process LiDAR data in ArcGIS Pro
Estimate tree canopy height and map tall trees using LiDAR data

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops vertical analysis and visualization techniques, which are foundational skills for advanced spatial analysis
Covers GIS concepts that are highly relevant to real-world applications in industries like environmental monitoring and land management
Taught by experts in GIS from Esri, a recognized leader in the field of geographic information systems
Provides hands-on experience with ArcGIS Pro, the industry-standard software for 3D GIS
Includes a variety of interactive materials and exercises
Requires access to specialized software, ArcGIS Pro, which may not be readily available to all learners

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in 3D GIS with these activities:
Organize Course Notes and Materials
Consolidate lecture notes, handouts, and supplemental materials for easy reference and review throughout the course.
Show steps
  • Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials
  • Organize materials by topic or lecture date
  • Add notes and annotations to enhance understanding
Revisit Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra Concepts
Review and refresh advanced calculus and linear algebra concepts to provide a strong mathematical foundation for the analysis and processing of 3D spatial data using ArcGIS Scene.
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or notes from previous courses
  • Solve practice problems and exercises to reinforce understanding
  • Seek additional resources or tutoring if needed
Explore ArcGIS Pro Forums for Tips and Examples
Engage in discussions and browse tutorials on ArcGIS Pro forums to deepen your understanding of the software and its applications.
Show steps
  • Access the ArcGIS Pro Forums
  • Search for discussions related to topics covered in the course
  • Review tutorials and examples shared by other users
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Complete ArcGIS Pro Exercises and Labs
Work through hands-on exercises and labs provided in the course materials to build proficiency in ArcGIS Pro.
Browse courses on ArcGIS Pro
Show steps
  • Download and install ArcGIS Pro software
  • Follow the step-by-step instructions in the exercises
  • Practice manipulating and analyzing spatial data
Assist Peers in Understanding 3D GIS Concepts
Offer support and guidance to classmates by answering questions,分享 resources, or collaborating on projects, solidifying your own understanding of the subject matter.
Show steps
  • Join online forums or study groups related to the course
  • Identify areas where you can provide assistance to peers
  • Engage in discussions, share insights, and offer help to others
Create a 3D Model of Your Local Area
Develop a comprehensive 3D model of your local area, integrating elevation data, land use features, and additional relevant information.
Browse courses on 3D Visualization
Show steps
  • Gather elevation data and land use maps
  • Import data into ArcGIS Pro and create a 3D scene
  • Model buildings, roads, and other features in 3D
  • Add textures and realistic details to enhance visual realism
Develop a Presentation on the Applications of 3D GIS
Research and create a presentation that showcases real-world examples of how 3D GIS is used in diverse industries and applications.
Show steps
  • Identify different industries and applications where 3D GIS is utilized
  • Gather case studies and relevant data to support your presentation
  • Design and create a visually engaging presentation using slides or other tools

Career center

Learners who complete 3D GIS will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Geographic Information Systems Analyst
A Geographic Information Systems Analyst designs, develops and implements GIS solutions. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an understanding of foundational GIS concepts, as well as advanced concepts like 3D mapping and spatial analysis of raster data.
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant helps organizations develop and implement environmental management solutions. This course can be useful for this role, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize environmental data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Natural Resources Manager
A Natural Resources Manager develops and implements plans to manage natural resources. This course may be useful for this role, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize natural resources data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Hydrologist
A Hydrologist studies and manages water resources. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to delineate watersheds and analyze elevation data, which are important skills for understanding water flow and distribution.
GIS Specialist
A GIS Specialist designs, develops and implements GIS solutions. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing an understanding of foundational GIS concepts, as well as advanced concepts like 3D mapping and spatial analysis of raster data.
Forester
A Forester manages and conserves forests and other natural resources. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize forest resources data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Cartographer
A Cartographer creates and designs maps. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers cartographic principles and advanced techniques for creating 3D maps.
City Planner
A City Planner develops and implements plans for the development and use of land in a city or region. This course can be useful for this role, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize land use data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and constructs roads, bridges, buildings and other structures. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize terrain data, and understand hydrology.
Geologist
A Geologist studies the Earth's physical structure and history. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize geological data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist studies and analyzes environmental issues and develops solutions to address them. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize environmental data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Hydrogeologist
A Hydrogeologist studies the movement of water underground. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize groundwater data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Geophysicist
A Geophysicist studies the Earth's physical structure and properties. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize geophysical data, and understand terrain and hydrology.
Land Surveyor
A Land Surveyor surveys and maps land. This course may be useful for this career, as it covers how to use GIS to create and manage maps, and understand terrain.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops and implements plans for the development and use of land in a city or region. This course can be useful for this role, as it covers how to use GIS to analyze and visualize land use data, and understand terrain and hydrology.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in 3D GIS.
Provides a comprehensive overview of geospatial analysis techniques. It would be helpful for those with some experience with GIS who want to learn more about geospatial analysis.
A comprehensive guide to GIS principles and practices, covering topics such as data collection, processing, analysis, and visualization, including considerations for 3D data.
Covers the use of LiDAR remote sensing for a variety of applications, including forestry, agriculture, and urban planning.
This informative book covers the principles and techniques of topographic mapping and 3D modeling, providing a solid foundation in these essential GIS skills.
This foundational book provides a comprehensive overview of GIS concepts and principles, serving as a valuable reference for understanding the field's history and evolution.

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