The next version of ArcGIS Explorer that’s due out in a few weeks adds a number of exciting features that make the release a game changer for web-based mapping. For years, the promise of porting GIS data and functionality online has been overshadowed by the efforts of Google and Microsoft to bring geospatial visualization to the masses. It’s taken some time for GIS to catch up to these efforts, to integrate GIS data and functionality in a easy-to-use viewer that doesn’t overwhelm the users with complexity, and offers reliably quick performance. With the new version of ArcGIS Explorer, I feel that ESRI has taken a giant leap forward to extend GIS capabilities to the masses.
To start,the new release has an intuitive ribbon interface that greatly simplifies the interaction. The layer package feature of ArcGIS 9.3.1 allows GIS users to integrate their GIS data with ArcGIS Explorer to visualize and share GIS data with the public. The portability of this file type allows for a number of new and exciting opportunities.
The most exciting element of this new release is the ability to create rich presentations that can integrate PowerPoint slides with a dynamic viewer that gives you full access to the background GIS data. This feature was demonstrated in a number of different scenarios that bring GIS data to life, including the creation of a planning presentation, and the exploration of Yellowstone National Park, with the integration of web cameras to give real-time views of the area.
When these new capabilities hit the street, the enhanced flexibility of this map publishing platform will elevate the importance of quality map design.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I have been reading about Iraq GIS data lately. I think this is a great idea and will help immensely!