BICC’s crosscutting program area “Data and GIS (Geographic Information System)” serves as a backbone and source for all other program areas at BICC.

BICC's work includes data collection and storage, data provision and use, spatial data visualization as well as the development of interactive database and WebGIS applications. Additionally, the program area focuses on the implementation and use of new methods for GIS-based spatial, statistical and comparative data and information analysis. 

In this context, the following questions are particularly relevant to BICC's work in this area:

• Which opportunities do the new media offer to find, collect and share data with everyone for free? Which data sources are available and reliable? How can high quality of data be ensured?
• How can opportunities and benefits of GIS and remote sensing best be used to enhance methods and concepts for the critical analysis of local/regional/global conflict and/or peace processes?
• How can data and information, related to security, peace and conflict research best be visualised to facilitate the understanding of processes and complex issues? 

The program area is integrated in many projects and publications at BICC, such as the arms export database and the Global Militarization Index (GMI). Moreover, self-contained, data-based products are developed, such as the database on base closures in NRW as well as the modular information portal on war and peace in association with the German Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) for use in the latter’s online services.

BICC is increasingly involved in the development of innovative methods, products and services with which practical information from remote sensing data for monitoring peace and security can be gained.