GIS tools to optimise the work of the architecture student

Every commencement of design work in architectural studies is preceded by the making of analyses of the site in question. This is an indispensable and very important process aimed at determining and illustrating the conditions for shaping the future development, selecting the most appropriate function of the designed object and defining the context of the place. With several design subjects at the same time, it is a challenge for the student to meet the demands of the course and complete it on time. The use of geographic information system (GIS)-based software, which is becoming increasingly popular among architecture students, can help. The aim of this paper is to explore how GIS software can facilitate the student’s site analysis. Based on graphical studies performed in QGIS software, the required time, hardware and final output were examined. These were compared with analyses made in the traditional form, i.e. in AutoCAD and Photoshop software. The results showed that, with the help of software such as QGIS, performing contemporary analyses saves time and allows aspects that are difficult to see in the field to be seen, thus optimising the work of the architecture student and increasing their awareness of individual conditions.