What do coordinate systems provide in the context of GIS?

Coordinate systems are fundamental in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as they provide the necessary framework for assigning values to data, allowing for precise location on maps. These systems define how spatial data is represented in relation to the Earth's surface, typically through a grid or a set of coordinates. This allows users to pinpoint exact locations for various features, whether they're geographical landmarks, streets, or specific areas of interest.

Having a proper coordinate system ensures that data can be accurately plotted, analyzed, and integrated with other datasets. With this ability to locate data on a map, it enables effective planning, decision-making, and spatial analysis crucial for all sorts of applications like urban planning, environmental monitoring, and resource management.