Geocoding is the process of converting addresses or place names into geographic coordinates, typically latitude and longitude. This allows for the identification of specific locations on a map or in a geographic information system (GIS). Geocoding is essential in various applications, including mapping services, location-based services, urban planning, and navigation. It enables users to find and visualize points of interest, optimize routes, and analyze spatial data. The reverse process, known as reverse geocoding, involves converting geographic coordinates back into human-readable addresses or place names. Geocoding relies on databases that contain geographic information, and its accuracy can vary based on the quality of the underlying data and the algorithms used.
Zip codes are pivotal in logistics, originally created by the USPS in 1963 to streamline mail delivery through the Zoning Improvement Plan (ZIP). These numeric sequences have evolved globally to…