Published on 15/11/2025, Updated on 25/01/2026
Planning teams often rely on tools such as GISs to ensure they have all the necessary data to complete their project. However, data access can be slow and fragmented, especially if it needs to be retrieved manually.
That’s why APIs have become essential pieces of software, as they help to bridge the gap between datasets and GIS, enabling seamless integration and data sharing.
In this article, our experts will explore what an API is, how it connects with GIS, and how Landstack’s Raster API and GraphQL API make it possible to access up-to-date land and planning information.
What is API Software?
Before we delve into how these two systems can be integrated, let’s answer the key question: ‘What is API software?’
API stands for Application Programming Interface, and it acts as a connector between different systems, enabling them to communicate with each other.
This means data can be automatically transferred and updated without the need for manual input, freeing up planning teams’ time so they can focus on analysis and decision-making, rather than data entry.
The 5 Benefits of Using Landstack’s APIs
- Our data is always up-to-date and accurate
- There’s no need for manual downloads or data cleaning
- Both our APIs work with existing GIS tools (no workflow change required)
- Our APIs scale with your organisation’s needs and demands
- The overall research time for planning is reduced
Choosing the Right Landstack API for You
You can start using our Raster API straight away; simply sign up for our Landstack Lite package, add some credits, and you’ll be able to access our planning data straight away. It integrates with QGIS and ArcGIS seamlessly, and you can set up multiple keys and track spending all in one place.
Or you can integrate Landstack data into your own GIS app with our GraphQL API, where you can access our continually updated planning data all in one application. Get in touch with our team to find out more.
Whichever option you choose, both APIs provide a simple, scalable way to connect your GIS tools to our reliable, up-to-date planning data.
What Is a GIS System?
A GIS, also known as a Geographic Information System, is a computer system designed to capture, store, analyse, and display all data linked to specific locations on Earth.
GISs help users visualise and understand spatial data based on the data within the system, allowing them to see trends and relationships.
For example, GISs can be used to highlight important environmental features, flag planning constraints, or show land boundaries between plots.
Who Uses GIS Systems?
A wide range of organisations utilise GISs as part of their day-to-day operations, including:
- Local planning authorities
- Environmental agencies
- Housing developers
- Utilities companies
- Housing associations
- Government
- Planning advisors
- Land agents
This system supports these sectors with efficiency, providing faster assessments, clarity on site variability, and reducing manual research.
As a result, building plans are better-informed, meaning developments can progress more quickly and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Although GISs are incredibly valuable tools, keeping them updated with the latest information and data is time-consuming.
But by combining GIS and API systems, such as our Raster API and GraphQL API software, operations can be further streamlined.
How APIs Connect GIS Systems to Planning Data
So, how exactly do these two systems connect?
A GIS contains the latest geographical information relating to specific locations on Earth. However, when developers, planners, or consultants use this tool, separate research is needed to gather planning data. Therefore, more time is spent manually integrating and cross-referencing this information to ensure accuracy.
When an API like the Raster API or GraphQL API is integrated into a GIS, users can easily access our extensive and up-to-date planning data, providing immediate insights and improved operational efficiency.
Find Planning Information and Development Land Faster with Landstack
Whether you are looking for development land that is ready for immediate development or option sites with long-term potential, integrating our Landstack API with your own GIS will simplify your land and planning processes, allowing you to find, assess, and progress sites faster and easier.
If you would like to see our API in action, we would love to give you a free personalised demo.