What is Online Mapping?
Online mapping is a way to use maps available online to provide a number of functions that traditional maps have provided for years. The most common application is probably road mapping, but there are other types of maps available as well, such as nautical maps. Online mapping is a growing field as many are turning to the Internet for more personalized information. One advantage of online mapping is the ability to custom make a map for an individual based on particular needs. This can help a traveler by removing all unnecessary information and providing a simple, concise summary of a proposed route. Thus, the map is much more than a graphic of roads, it is a custom-made printing specifically based on a desired route. Many online mapping programs offer the chance to produce a map using a number of different preferences. First, those who may want to take more scenic routes may have an option for that in the listings. Those who prefer interstate travel could have an option for that as wel
There are many definitions for online mapping. Online mapping is the process of creating and publishing a map online that allows a user to interact with the map content. Online mapping is not simply posting a static map in an image format (e.g., JPG, PDF) to a web site. Online mapping provides dynamic maps that change based on a user’s requests, such as zooming in and out, panning or moving the map, and identifying features on the map. The information reported back to the user is usually extracted directly from a database. For example, a user may want to know more about a building feature on the map. When the user clicks on that building, information such as the name of the building, the year it was built, and the building’s use might be the information attributes that are returned.
Online mapping basically allows users to publish dynamic maps on the web for public use. The functionality of tools that interact with the underlying data in the map can vary. Recently, online mapping has become very popular, especially with the advent of Google Maps. While Google Maps is more of an atlas, there are other online mapping software packages that allows users to perform simple analyses, with basic capabilities similar to those of desktop GIS software. Visit the Examples page to see a variety of applications. More about online mapping…
