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Quantum GIS (often abbreviated to QGIS) is an OpensourceGIS (mapping) application which is similar to commercial mapping packages. Because it is distributed as an opensource application under the GNU distribution license, Quantum GIS can be reprogrammed to perform different or more specialist tasks. There are also Plug-ins available to expand compatibility and functionality. Quantum GIS has a small file size compared to commercial options and requires less RAM and Processing Power; hence it can be used on older hardware or running simultaneously with other applications where CPU power may be limited.
It is a multi-platform application and runs on different operating systems including Mac OS X , Linux , UNIX , and Windows XP . Performance appears to be better on non-Windows machines. For Mac users, the advantage of Quantum GIS over GRASS GIS is that it does not require the X11 windowing system in order to run, and all round the interface is much cleaner and faster.
Quantum GIS is continually maintained by an active group of voluntary developers who regularly release updates and bug fixes. Currently, developers have converted Quantum GIS into 14 languages and the application is used internationally in the school and professional environment.
