Here are 20 widely recognized GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software programs, ranging from professional-grade to open-source tools:

1. ArcGIS (Esri)

• Industry-standard GIS software with a comprehensive suite for mapping, analysis, and geospatial data management.

2. QGIS (Quantum GIS)

• Open-source GIS software widely used for mapping and spatial analysis.

3. MapInfo Professional (Precisely)

• Popular GIS software for mapping and location analytics.

4. Global Mapper

• GIS tool with a focus on 3D data processing, analysis, and visualization.

5. ERDAS IMAGINE (Hexagon)

• Software for remote sensing and raster-based spatial analysis.

6. ENVI (L3Harris)

• Advanced GIS tool tailored for processing and analyzing geospatial imagery.

7. AutoCAD Map 3D (Autodesk)

• GIS functionality integrated into AutoCAD for mapping and CAD operations.

8. Surfer (Golden Software)

• Used for contouring, 3D surface mapping, and spatial data visualization.

9. Geomatica (PCI Geomatics)

• A remote sensing and image processing software with GIS capabilities.

10. Smallworld GIS (GE Digital)

• GIS platform tailored for utilities and telecommunications industries.

11. SAGA GIS (System for Automated Geoscientific Analyses)

• Open-source GIS software with strong geoprocessing capabilities.

12. Manifold GIS

• GIS software focused on speed and integration with database systems.

13. GeoServer

• Open-source server software for sharing geospatial data.

14. OpenLayers

• JavaScript library for creating web-based GIS applications.

15. PostGIS

• Spatial database extender for PostgreSQL that adds support for geospatial data.

16. Carto (CartoDB)

• Cloud-based GIS platform for visualization and analysis.

17. Google Earth Pro

• Free software for 3D visualization of geographic data and mapping.

18. Geoserver

• An open-source server for hosting and managing geospatial data.

19. GeoMedia (Hexagon)

• GIS software designed for integrating geospatial data from various sources.

20. GRASS GIS (Geographic Resources Analysis Support System)

• Open-source GIS software with strong capabilities for spatial modeling.

Let me know if you’d like to explore any of these tools further or need a comparison chart!