Getting started with QGIS:

Background, orientation, recommended Plug-ins

GIS: (Geographic Information System) An integrated collection of computer software and data used to view and manage information about geographic places, analyze spatial relationships, and model spatial processes. (from A to Z GIS)

Visit:

• GIS Library guide
• Geospatial Data Guide
• Colorado GeoLibrary

QGIS: (aka Quantum GIS) An open source GIS desktop application.

• Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)
• Full-featured GIS desktop application
• Runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, … and Android? Sure, why not!?
• Current version: Long-Term Release: 3.4.15; Latest Release: 3.10.2
• QGIS.org
• Show QGIS some love by buying a mug or t-shirt!
• Download QGIS

The QGIS Desktop Interface:

Interface Tips:

• The most frequently used toolbars/panels will be visible by default, but if you’re missing some of the toolbars or panels visible in the image, you can turn them on under View > Panels or View > Toolbars.
• Recommended Panels:
  • Layers Panel
  • Browser Panel
• Recommended Toolbars:
  • Manage Layers toolbar
• Use the Hand icon as your default cursor to help you navigate.
• We highly recommend using a mouse (aids with navigation/zoom).

Plugins!

As an open source project, anyone can develop plugins to use with QGIS. Sometimes if a tool for a particular task isn’t available in the regular tools you can find it in Plugins.

To add a plugin, click plugins> Manage and Install Plugins…

You can search and install plugins, view your installed plugins, or install plugins you’ve downloaded elsewhere from the Plugins Repository.

Recommended Plugins

• QuickMapServices: Easily load basemaps from 20+ providers (check out Stamen Watercolor)
• QuickOSM: Quickly extract vector data from OpenStreetMap’s massive repository.

Documentation

QGIS documentation has really improved in the past several years! View the User Manual, Training Manual (with lessons), and introductory guides.

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