Geospatial data is information based on location.
Maps are the most familiar example.
Nowadays, computers have expanded the use of geospatial data in many ways, such as pinpointing the exact location of infrastructure like phone lines or water pipes, responding to emergencies, conducting research and planning community development. GeoConnections will bring all of Canada's geographical data together on the Internet, making it easy for people to access and use. It will also encourage private industry to develop new kinds of data and new applications, helping to ensure Canada continues to lead the way in the growing and increasingly competitive global market. This initiative was developed by NRCan and other federal departments in partnership with the provinces, territories, private sector and academic community. GeoConnections is part of the federal government's efforts to encourage the burgeoning geomatics industry, while ensuring that Canadians in Aboriginal, rural and northern communities have access to the latest geographic knowledge and information they need to stimulate local growth, manage resources and promote sustainable development.