Geographic Information Systems is an initiative of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies since September 1999 as part of its efforts to establish an automated, internet-based and user-friendly database system. The GIS provides a unique way of viewing and analyzing spatial data by presenting it in a geographical format. Full color maps reveal patterns and relationships that will allow users of data to view information in a new perspective. Maps on this site contain socio-economic indicators such as Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), Unemployment Rate, and Poverty Incidence. Other social indicators like Infant Mortality Rate, Cohort Survival Rate and NEAT/NSAT results are also included. Data for these indicators may be viewed on the national, regional and provincial level.

The maps are color-coded to show the relative performance of a province/region vis-à-vis other provinces/regions. The color green is used to show a good performance, which is determined by a ratio/statistic that is equivalent to or better than the national average. On the other hand, the color red is used to denote performance that is worse than the national average. A darker shade is used to indicate a relatively better (dark green) or relatively worse (dark red) performance within each color.