Geo-referencing in GIS is the process of assigning spatial locations (coordinates) to a dataset, such as an image, map, or survey data, so that it can be viewed, analyzed, and compared with other spatial datasets.
The main objective of geo-referencing is to integrate datasets from different sources that have different coordinate systems, projections, and scales into a common reference framework. This enables users to overlay, compare, and analyze different spatial datasets accurately and effectively.
Geo-referencing involves aligning the data to a known reference system, such as a map or satellite imagery, and assigning a spatial location to each data point. This process involves identifying control points, which are specific locations that appear in both the data and the reference system, and using them to determine the transformation that is needed to align the data with the reference system.
Once the data has been geo-referenced, it can be used for data acquisition, data management, manipulation, and analysis in GIS. Geo-referenced datasets can be used for a wide range of applications, including natural resource management, urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.