This book explores how human geographers can engage with a variety of important policy issues through linking GIS and spatial analysis, demonstrating their importance for solving real world problems in both the public and private sector. The first book to offer a social science approach to GIS applications while instructing in the use of GIS. It outlines a range of modern uses with associated practicals to work through, and demonstrates how researcher and policymakers can use GIS to plan services more effectively. It will be of interest to geographers, as well as the broader social sciences, such as sociology, crime science, health, business and marketing.