geographic information system

geographic information system(GIS) A tool for interpreting data based on geodemographic segmentation. It consists of a demographic database, digitized maps, and computer software; lifestyle data may also be included in the analysis. The two main systems currently available in the UK are ACORN, which has 56 neighbourhood types classified into 17 groups, and Mosaic, which identifies 61 types of neighbourhood with a wide range of variables classified into 11 market groupings. Both systems now operate at the level of individual postcodes, thereby targeting potential customers more closely.

geography-based organization An organizational structure in which a market area is divided into territories; marketing efforts are specialized and carried out by geographic area.

• UK National Accounts
• UK Payments Administration
• ullage
• ultimate holding company
• ultimo
• ultra vires
• umbrella fund
• umpire
• unabsorbed cost
• unamortized cost
• unbundling
• uncertificated units
• uncleared effects
• uncommitted facility
• unconditional bid
• unconfirmed letter of credit
• unconscionable bargain
• unconsolidated subsidiary
• uncontrollable costs
• uncontrollable turnover
• uncoupling inventory
• UNCTAD
• undated security
• underabsorbed overhead
• undercapitalization