GIS Module
The GIS module has been separated from the Map module in order to define a more integrated and separate approach to linking with GIS data. The GIS module has two separate modes, although the primary functions are available in either mode. The main reason that the GIS data has been separated from the map module is to allow users to handle large files more efficiently when creating hydrologic models. For example the GIS module allows you to import large files and then select and convert to feature objects only the portions that are needed. The conversion to feature objects is both time consuming and potentially memory intensive, and so managing your GIS data in this fashion is more efficient (the equivalent GIS functionality is to clip out just the parts of the data you need for import).
For more detailed information on the GIS Module options in SMS visit the following SMS wiki links:
www.xmswiki.com/...GISModule
www.xmswiki.com/...MapModule
www.xmswiki.com/...ArcObjects
www.xmswiki.com/...Shapefiles