-Data can be represented at its original resolution and form without generalization.
-Graphic output is usually more aesthetically pleasing (traditional cartographic representation);
-Since most data, e.g. hard copy maps, is in vector form no data conversion is required.
-Accurate geographic location of data is maintained.
-Allows for efficient encoding of topology, and as a result more efficient operations that require topological information, e.g. proximity, network analysis.