# Best GIS Software - Page 2 *By [Daniel Rivera](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/daniel-rivera)* A geographic information system (GIS) lets users visualize, question, analyze, and interpret geographical data to help them understand and problem-solve relationships, patterns, and trends. Companies use GIS to manage geographical data in order to improve operations in many geoscience industries as well as land-centric enterprises (e.g. sales territory management, field service dispatching, asset maintenance, transportation or construction). The [best GIS software](https://learn.g2.com/best-gis-software) collects, incorporates and manipulates attribute data from maps to a business’ reporting systems to analyze and assess real-world problems. GIS data usually displays different kinds of data on one map, to facilitate deep analysis and efficiently use as much data as possible. GIS software usually focuses on gathering, analyzing, and displaying geographical data to manage business operations. GIS can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud. Typical implementations can result in a savings in operational expenses. GIS often integrates with CAD, BIM, and other drafting and design software to enhance its analytics capabilities. To qualify for inclusion in the Geographic Information System (GIS) category, a product must: - Store, organize, edit, and analyze geographical data - Include visualization capabilities to display geographical information - Either have GIS capability or utilize a GIS platform in its solution - Align and/or manipulate data from maps and sources ## Top GIS Software at a Glance | # | Product | Rating | Best For | What Users Say | |---|---------|--------|----------|----------------| | 1 | [Google Earth Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/google-earth-pro/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (373 reviews) | Site reconnaissance with historical satellite imagery | "[A superpower for remote site assessment and historical mapping](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/google-earth-pro-review-12841536)" | | 2 | [Google Maps Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/google-maps-platform/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (57 reviews) | Real-time routing with familiar consumer interface | "[Essential Mapping and Routing Solution for Efficient Logistics](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/google-maps-platform-review-12393616)" | | 3 | [Esri ArcGIS](https://www.g2.com/products/esri-arcgis/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (515 reviews) | Enterprise spatial analysis and cartographic production | "[ArcGIS: A Powerful All-in-One GIS Ecosystem with Excellent 3D and Analysis Tools](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/esri-arcgis-review-12680953)" | | 4 | [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) | 4.4/5.0 (1,835 reviews) | CAD drafting with GIS data integration | "[AutoCAD Delivers Precision Drafting and Professional, Productive Workflows](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/autocad-review-13040322)" | | 5 | [Maptitude](https://www.g2.com/products/maptitude/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (148 reviews) | Desktop GIS with bundled demographic data | "[Exceptional Mapping Power with User-Friendly Design and Great Support](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/maptitude-review-12045882)" | | 6 | [ArcGIS Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-pro/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (173 reviews) | Enterprise GIS with 2D/3D integration and Python automation | "[Efficient and Powerful GIS Solution for Modern Mapping Workflows](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-pro-review-12699078)" | | 7 | [BatchGeo](https://www.g2.com/products/batchgeo/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (998 reviews) | Spreadsheet-to-map conversion for field routing | "[Intuitive, Instant Color-Coded Maps from Excel—A Massive Time-Saver](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/batchgeo-review-12246745)" | | 8 | [Mapme](https://www.g2.com/products/mapme/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (35 reviews) | Public-facing interactive maps without coding | "[Robust Mapping Tool with Excellent Support](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapme-review-12939076)" | | 9 | [Badger Maps](https://www.g2.com/products/badger-maps/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (329 reviews) | Field sales route optimization with CRM-lite tracking | "[Infield Makes Trip Planning and Record Keeping Easy—with Responsive Support](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/badger-maps-review-12707794)" | | 10 | [MapTiler](https://www.g2.com/products/maptiler/reviews) | 4.8/5.0 (16 reviews) | — | "[MapTiler solves all our needs in terms of processing weather forecasts](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/maptiler-review-12330464)" | ## G2 Grid® for GIS Software ![G2 Grid® for GIS Software plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/gis/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=8055&focus%5B%5D=43485&focus%5B%5D=8040&focus%5B%5D=1797&focus%5B%5D=14964&focus%5B%5D=43554&focus%5B%5D=75745&focus%5B%5D=82003) Highlighted products: Google Earth Pro, Google Maps Platform, Esri ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Maptitude, ArcGIS Pro, BatchGeo, and Mapme. Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/gis/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=google-earth-pro&focus%5B%5D=google-maps-platform&focus%5B%5D=esri-arcgis&focus%5B%5D=autocad&focus%5B%5D=maptitude&focus%5B%5D=arcgis-pro&focus%5B%5D=batchgeo&focus%5B%5D=mapme) ## How Many GIS Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 340 ### Category Stats (Jul 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.27/5 The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings - **Top Trending Product**: Mapme (+0.53%) - Among all products in this category, Mapme recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month *Last updated: July 08, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank GIS Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 7,900+ Authentic Reviews - 340+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which GIS Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Leader:** [Google Earth Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/google-earth-pro/reviews) - **Highest Performer:** [BatchGeo](https://www.g2.com/products/batchgeo/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [Badger Maps](https://www.g2.com/products/badger-maps/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [Smarty](https://www.g2.com/products/smarty-smarty/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [BatchGeo](https://www.g2.com/products/batchgeo/reviews) --- **Sponsored** ### Smarty Smarty offers global address verification, address validation, and geocoding via API, bulk upload, and a collection of 3rd party integrations that transform how organizations handle address data. With real-time address autocomplete, correction, standardization, and validation, it guarantees the accuracy and reliability of addresses. Smarty's US rooftop geocoding, reverse geocoding, and property data APIs help you enrich and hone your address data. These powerful APIs have far-reaching benefits, from improving the efficiency of your marketing campaigns to enhancing data analysis and operational processes. [Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=362&secure%5Bchosen_at%5D=2026-07-09T06%3A09%3A20Z&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=362&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=page_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=362&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=68353&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=362&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fgis&secure%5Btoken%5D=8780b2608909a82a1224802d66c3e372e061f240d88e1c6c80708634a7a1e5ea&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smarty.com%2Flanding%2Fg2&secure%5Burl_type%5D=free_trial) --- ## What Are the Top-Rated GIS Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [Living Atlas of the World](https://www.g2.com/products/living-atlas-of-the-world/reviews) Living Atlas of the World is the foremost collection of global geographic information from Esri and its partners, including maps, apps, and data layers used to support critical decision making. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 10 **How Do G2 Users Rate Living Atlas of the World?** - **Data Capture:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Living Atlas of the World?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 40% Small-Business, 30% Enterprise #### What Are Living Atlas of the World's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Comprehensive Data (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Mapping Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Living Atlas of the World? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **comprehensive data** of Living Atlas of the World, providing easy access to global geographic information. **Cons:** - Users find the **mapping issues** problematic, often feeling lost without specific knowledge of what to search for. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Living Atlas of the World? **"[Unmatched Access to Global Data in One Place](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/living-atlas-of-the-world-review-11927173)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Higher Education* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/living-atlas-of-the-world-review-11927173) --- **"[Rich and ready-to-use data to save time](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/living-atlas-of-the-world-review-12120030)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Environmental Services* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/living-atlas-of-the-world-review-12120030) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Living Atlas of the World? - [What is Living Atlas of the World used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-living-atlas-of-the-world-used-for) ### 2. [OpenStreetMap](https://www.g2.com/products/openstreetmap/reviews) OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a collaborative project that creates a free, editable map of the world, maintained by a community of volunteers. Established in 2004, OSM allows users to contribute and update data about roads, trails, cafés, railway stations, and more, utilizing tools like aerial imagery and GPS devices. Key Features and Functionality: - Editable Map Data: Users can add and modify map information, ensuring up-to-date and accurate representations of geographic areas. - Diverse Data Inclusion: OSM encompasses a wide range of data, including roads, buildings, addresses, points of interest, and natural features. - Community-Driven Contributions: With nearly 5 million registered users and over 1 million active contributors worldwide, OSM thrives on local knowledge and collective effort. - Open Data License: All map data is freely available under the Open Database License, allowing unrestricted use and distribution with proper attribution. Primary Value and User Solutions: OpenStreetMap provides an open-source alternative to proprietary mapping services, offering free access to comprehensive and customizable geographic data. It empowers individuals, organizations, and developers to create tailored maps, support navigation applications, and conduct geospatial analyses without licensing fees. OSM's emphasis on local knowledge ensures detailed and accurate mapping, particularly in areas underserved by commercial mapping services. Additionally, its open data model fosters innovation and collaboration across various sectors, including humanitarian aid, urban planning, and transportation. **Average Rating:** 3.9/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 18 **How Do G2 Users Rate OpenStreetMap?** - **Data Capture:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind OpenStreetMap?** - **Seller:** [OpenStreetMap](https://www.g2.com/sellers/openstreetmap-7053a736-8e46-4479-abab-2ed822c8ac91) - **HQ Location:** Netherlands - **Twitter:** @openstreetmap (83,242 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/820543/ (95 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 47% Small-Business, 37% Enterprise #### What Are OpenStreetMap's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Easy Integration (1 reviews) - Free Access (1 reviews) - Geospatial Analysis (1 reviews) - Powerful Tools (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About OpenStreetMap? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users praise the **easy integration** of OpenStreetMap, finding it flexible and adaptable for various projects. - Users love the **free access** to OpenStreetMap, appreciating its flexibility and powerful offline capabilities. - Users love the **flexibility and offline capability** of OpenStreetMap, highlighting its power as a free mapping tool. - Users value the **powerful and flexible mapping tools** of OpenStreetMap, appreciating its open-source nature and offline accessibility. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of OpenStreetMap? **"[Easy to Integrate and Free Mapping tool.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openstreetmap-review-8865473)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Usha B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openstreetmap-review-8865473) --- **"[Map for your calculations](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openstreetmap-review-9006228)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Package/Freight Delivery* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openstreetmap-review-9006228) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About OpenStreetMap? - [What is OSM tool?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-osm-tool) - [How do open street maps work?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-open-street-maps-work) - [What software can you use to contribute to OSM?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-software-can-you-use-to-contribute-to-osm) - [What can OpenStreetMap be used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-can-openstreetmap-be-used-for) ### 3. [LocationIQ](https://www.g2.com/products/locationiq/reviews) Trusted by 100K+ developers, LocationIQ offers a suite of services that provides for powerful geolocation experiences that are reliable, affordable, and scalable. LocationIQ provides: 1. Address APIs: Reverse geocoding, forward geocoding, Autocomplete 2. Map APIs: Raster, Vector Map tiles, Dynamic and Static Maps 3. Routing APIs: Routing, Distance Matrix, Map-matching, Nearest and more **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 23 **How Do G2 Users Rate LocationIQ?** - **Data Capture:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind LocationIQ?** - **Seller:** [Unwired Labs](https://www.g2.com/sellers/unwired-labs) - **Year Founded:** 2013 - **HQ Location:** Hyderabad, TS - **Twitter:** @location_iq (79 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/unwired-labs/about (6 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services - **Company Size:** 36% Small-Business, 36% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of LocationIQ? **"[Geocoding Genius](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/locationiq-review-8081050)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Brian K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/locationiq-review-8081050) --- **"[Best_Geocoding](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/locationiq-review-8196031)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Rahul P.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/locationiq-review-8196031) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About LocationIQ? - [How do I get the LocationIQ token?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-get-the-locationiq-token) - [Is reverse geocoding free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-reverse-geocoding-free) - [Is Google geocoding free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-google-geocoding-free) - [How good is LocationIQ?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-good-is-locationiq) ### 4. [GIS Mapviewer](https://www.g2.com/products/gis-mapviewer/reviews) PubWorks MapViewer is an advanced GIS (Geographic Information System) module designed to seamlessly integrate with the PubWorks suite, providing public works departments with a dynamic visual representation of their assets and operations. By overlaying asset data onto interactive maps, MapViewer enhances spatial awareness and facilitates more informed decision-making. Key Features and Functionality: - Asset Visualization: Display various public works assets, such as roads, utilities, and facilities, directly on a GIS map, allowing for immediate spatial context. - Service Request Mapping: Instantly project service requests onto the map, enabling quick identification of issues and efficient resource allocation. - Work Order Integration: Map work orders to visualize ongoing and scheduled tasks, ensuring clarity in work distribution and progress tracking. - Attribute Inspection: Access detailed asset attributes within the map interface, providing comprehensive information without leaving the visual context. - Clipboard and Reporting: Select multiple assets, copy them to the clipboard, and generate tailored reports, streamlining data analysis and reporting processes. Primary Value and User Solutions: MapViewer addresses the challenge of managing and interpreting vast amounts of asset data by offering a spatially intuitive platform. Users can quickly locate assets, assess service requests, and monitor work orders, leading to improved operational efficiency and more effective resource deployment. The integration of GIS mapping with PubWorks' data ensures that public works departments can make data-driven decisions with a clear understanding of geographic implications. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate GIS Mapviewer?** - **Data Capture:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind GIS Mapviewer?** - **Seller:** [Tracker Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/tracker-software-49e1bbc1-75e8-4ebe-aa58-59f2070a93e5) - **Year Founded:** 1997 - **HQ Location:** Snowmass Village, US - **Twitter:** @PubWorks1 (42 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/pubworks (7 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 79% Small-Business, 14% Enterprise #### What Are GIS Mapviewer's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Feature Functionality (1 reviews) - Geospatial Analysis (1 reviews) - Mapping Features (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (1 reviews) - Technical Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About GIS Mapviewer? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **ability to visualize diverse data** in GIS Mapviewer, enhancing their interactive mapping experience. - Users praise the **geospatial analysis capabilities** of GIS Mapviewer for effectively visualizing diverse data in interactive maps. - Users value the **mapping features** of GIS Mapviewer, which effectively visualize diverse datasets on interactive maps. **Cons:** - Users face a **steeper learning curve** with GIS Mapviewer, making it challenging to adapt from the classic version. - Users report **technical issues** including performance concerns, a steep learning curve, and reduced functionality compared to the classic viewer. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of GIS Mapviewer? **"[GIS Mapviewer + ESRI Integration is 10/10](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gis-mapviewer-review-7613776)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Edward G.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gis-mapviewer-review-7613776) --- **"[great experience of mapping](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gis-mapviewer-review-11090813)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Nisar K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gis-mapviewer-review-11090813) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About GIS Mapviewer? - [What is new in map Viewer?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-new-in-map-viewer) - [What is the best free mapping software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-best-free-mapping-software) - [What is map Viewer Classic?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-map-viewer-classic) - [What is ArcGIS MapViewer?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-arcgis-mapviewer) ### 5. [ArcGIS Navigator](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-navigator/reviews) Navigator for ArcGIS is a mobile app that gets your field workforce where it needs to be, unlocking efficiency and improving reliability. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 36 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS Navigator?** - **Data Capture:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS Navigator?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services - **Company Size:** 47% Small-Business, 34% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS Navigator? **"[ArcGIS Navigator - Extremely Powerful Navigator](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-navigator-review-6813551)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Ankit H.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-navigator-review-6813551) --- **"[Arcgis navigator is very useful in terms of showing directions on processed maps](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-navigator-review-6806057)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Muhammad A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-navigator-review-6806057) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ArcGIS Navigator? - [What is ArcGIS Navigator used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-arcgis-navigator-used-for) ### 6. [ArcGIS Online](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-online/reviews) Connect people, locations, and data using interactive maps created with ArcGIS Online. Quickly create maps by dropping in your spreadsheet and mashing it up with other location data included in ArcGIS Online. Apply Smart Mapping styles to make your data visually stunning and use intuitive analysis tools to deliver location intelligence. Add valuable context to your data by combining it with Esri’s demographic and lifestyle data. Work collaboratively with your colleagues to build maps and apps. Instantly share your maps and apps with anyone, anywhere. Thousands of organizations and millions of users have proven ArcGIS Online to be a scalable and secure software-as-a-service hosted by Esri. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 174 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS Online?** - **Data Capture:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS Online?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Who Uses This:** GIS Analyst, GIS Specialist - **Top Industries:** Government Administration, Civil Engineering - **Company Size:** 40% Mid-Market, 32% Enterprise #### What Are ArcGIS Online's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (4 reviews) - Feature Functionality (2 reviews) - Collaboration (1 reviews) - Data Management (1 reviews) - Design Quality (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Expensive (1 reviews) - Expensive Subscription (1 reviews) - High System Requirements (1 reviews) - Learning Curve (1 reviews) - Poor Customer Support (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About ArcGIS Online? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users find **ArcGIS Online easy to use** , enabling efficient project delivery and diverse data visualization without heavy computing resources. - Users appreciate the **user-friendly interface and robust features** of ArcGIS Online, facilitating timely project delivery. - Users value the **collaboration features** of ArcGIS Online, enjoying easy sharing and access to valuable datasets. - Users value the **data management capabilities** of ArcGIS Online, praising its access to extensive visualization and datasets. - Users appreciate the **intuitive design** of ArcGIS Online, enjoying its features and ease of implementation for tasks. **Cons:** - Users are frustrated by the **expensive** credit costs of ArcGIS Online, which limit its frequent use. - Users find the **subscription costs prohibitively high** , impacting their overall usage of ArcGIS Online. - Users note the **high system requirements** for ArcGIS Online, limiting its use for advanced analysis and modeling. - Users find the **learning curve steep** for advanced analysis and modeling in ArcGIS Online without full software access. - Users experience **delayed customer support** , which can hinder timely resolution of issues with ArcGIS Online. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS Online? **"[ArcGIS Online: Simplifying GIS Data Sharing and Visualization](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-online-review-12630907)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Karthick K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-online-review-12630907) --- **"[ArcGIS On-the-Go Access Without the Desktop Download](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-online-review-12479453)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Individual & Family Services* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-online-review-12479453) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ArcGIS Online? - [What does ArcGIS Online do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-arcgis-online-do) - [What are features in ArcGIS?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-are-features-in-arcgis) - [What is the difference between ArcGIS online and Arcgis portal?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-difference-between-arcgis-online-and-arcgis-portal) - 3 comments ### 7. [ArcGIS Earth](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-earth/reviews) ArcGIS Earth is a simple, lightweight, easy-to-use desktop application that allows you to display and explore a variety of 3D and 2D map data for any part of the world. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 28 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS Earth?** - **Data Capture:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS Earth?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Government Administration - **Company Size:** 52% Mid-Market, 41% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS Earth? **"[ArcGIS Earth](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-earth-review-9110019)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Sunil R.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-earth-review-9110019) --- **"[Its user-friendly interface](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-earth-review-8778743)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— mahmud a.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-earth-review-8778743) --- ### 8. [MapInfo Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/mapinfo-pro/reviews) Location-based decisions: Explore, model and act with confidence. Harness the power of sophisticated mapping and geographical analysis software to make intelligent and productive business decisions. Location adds complexity to many decisions, and mistakes are too expensive for a “trial and error” approach. With MapInfo Pro, customers can easily identify – and make better decisions on – people, places, and patterns of interest. More and more people need to explore, model and act with confidence on… - Site selection - Asset management - Demand management - Risk management/ service resource allocation MapInfo Pro delivers: 1) An all-in-one solution A full-featured desktop solution to prepare data for web mapping applications and create presentation quality maps in a familiar environment that combines data analysis, visual insights, and map publishing. - Data analysis - Visual insights - Map publishing 2) MapInfo Marketplace Enhance your location analytics with the MapInfo Marketplace. Bring analytics to life and solve your specific business needs with customized apps that are released and updated continuously. 3) Team MapInfo Pro supports the larger team of business experts, database experts, and developers who collaborate to deliver “self-serve” decision tools across the entire organization allowing location analysts to focus on special projects and creating templates for others to use. 4) Community The MapInfo community is your professional peer group of location analysts who can provide ideas, tips and tricks, and help guide the future development of MapInfo Pro Make the move to MapInfo Pro v2021 and join the MapInfo Pro community. Together, we’ll take a new, exciting journey as we collaborate to improve the future of mapping analytics. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 107 **How Do G2 Users Rate MapInfo Pro?** - **Data Capture:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind MapInfo Pro?** - **Seller:** [Precisely](https://www.g2.com/sellers/precisely-0b25c016-ffa5-4f51-9d9e-fcbc9f54cc55) - **HQ Location:** Burlington, Massachusetts - **Twitter:** @PreciselyData (3,963 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/64863146/ (3,006 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Civil Engineering, Telecommunications - **Company Size:** 46% Enterprise, 28% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of MapInfo Pro? **"[Mapinfo as a User](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapinfo-pro-review-1251612)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Civil Engineering* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapinfo-pro-review-1251612) --- **"[One of the best choices for geological exploration software.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapinfo-pro-review-8106895)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Tsogkhuu I.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapinfo-pro-review-8106895) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About MapInfo Pro? - [What is MapInfo Pro used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-mapinfo-pro-used-for) - [What does MapInfo Pro do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-mapinfo-pro-do) - 1 comment - [How do I create a map in MapInfo?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-create-a-map-in-mapinfo) - [How much does MapInfo cost?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-much-does-mapinfo-cost) - [What is MapInfo?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-mapinfo) ### 9. [Citymapper](https://www.g2.com/products/citymapper/reviews) Citymapper is building the best app (http://citymapper.com/apps), with the best routing, and the best data in the cities where we can make a difference. **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 18 **How Do G2 Users Rate Citymapper?** - **Data Capture:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 9.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Citymapper?** - **Seller:** [Citymapper](https://www.g2.com/sellers/citymapper) - **HQ Location:** London, London - **Twitter:** @Citymapper (23,847 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/2378462/ (49 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 71% Small-Business, 24% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Citymapper? **"[App that works well enough to be a human's best friend](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/citymapper-review-5241993)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Yiğit OĞUZHAN A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/citymapper-review-5241993) --- **"[Excellent Tool](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/citymapper-review-4852283)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Ankit J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/citymapper-review-4852283) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Citymapper? - [Is Citymapper a good app?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-citymapper-a-good-app) - [Where does Citymapper get its data from?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/where-does-citymapper-get-its-data-from) - [Why is Citymapper great?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/why-is-citymapper-great) - 1 comment - [Why is Citymapper better than Google Maps?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/why-is-citymapper-better-than-google-maps) - 1 comment ### 10. [Apache Spatial Information System](https://www.g2.com/products/apache-spatial-information-system/reviews) Apache Spatial Information System (SIS) is a free, open-source Java library designed for developing geospatial applications. It provides data structures for geographic features and associated metadata, along with methods to manipulate these structures. As an implementation of GeoAPI 3.0.2 interfaces, SIS is suitable for both desktop and server applications. Key Features and Functionality: - Metadata Handling: Supports the creation of metadata objects compliant with OGC/ISO international standards, facilitating interoperability and data sharing. - Coordinate Reference Systems (CRS): Enables the construction and transformation of CRS definitions, allowing for accurate geospatial data representation and conversion between different coordinate systems. - Raster Processing: Offers multi-threaded raster reprojection and isoline computation, enhancing the efficiency of processing large raster datasets. - Data Format Support: Provides reading and writing capabilities for various geospatial data formats, including GeoTIFF, NetCDF, ESRI formats, and more, ensuring compatibility with diverse data sources. - Unit Conversion: Implements JSR-385 for parsing, formatting, and converting measurement units, aiding in precise geospatial calculations. - Geodetic Operations: Supports various map projections such as Mercator, Transverse Mercator, Lambert Conic Conformal, and stereographic, essential for accurate mapping and spatial analysis. - Geohashes and MGRS: Provides encoding and decoding of geographic coordinates using Geohashes and the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS), facilitating efficient spatial indexing and location referencing. Primary Value and User Solutions: Apache SIS addresses the need for a standardized and comprehensive geospatial library in Java, enabling developers to build applications that require precise spatial data handling. By adhering to international standards, it ensures interoperability between different geospatial systems and datasets. Its modular architecture allows users to integrate specific functionalities as needed, making it a versatile tool for tasks ranging from metadata management to complex geodetic computations. This empowers organizations to effectively manage, analyze, and visualize geospatial information, supporting decision-making processes across various domains. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 11 **How Do G2 Users Rate Apache Spatial Information System?** - **Data Capture:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Apache Spatial Information System?** - **Seller:** [The Apache Software Foundation](https://www.g2.com/sellers/the-apache-software-foundation) - **Year Founded:** 1999 - **HQ Location:** Wakefield, MA - **Twitter:** @TheASF (66,168 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/215982/ (2,470 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 73% Small-Business, 18% Enterprise #### What Are Apache Spatial Information System's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Geospatial Analysis (1 reviews) - Tool Variety (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Difficulty (1 reviews) - No Tutorials (1 reviews) - Too Complex (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Apache Spatial Information System? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **complete and modular suite of Java tools** for effective geospatial data management in Apache Spatial. - Users appreciate the **comprehensive suite of Java tools** provided by Apache Spatial Information System for managing geospatial data. **Cons:** - Users note the **learning difficulty** due to technical complexity and challenging documentation for beginners. - Users find the **lack of tutorials** challenging, especially given the technical nature of Apache Spatial Information System. - Users find the **complexity and challenging documentation** of the Apache Spatial Information System difficult for beginners. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Apache Spatial Information System? **"[Comprehensive Java Suite for Geospatial Data Management](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apache-spatial-information-system-review-11927601)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Higher Education* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apache-spatial-information-system-review-11927601) --- **"[Robust framework for geospatial data and analysis](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apache-spatial-information-system-review-9815134)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Somnath B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apache-spatial-information-system-review-9815134) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Apache Spatial Information System? - [What is Apache Spatial Information System used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-apache-spatial-information-system-used-for) ### 11. [ArcGIS Enterprise](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-enterprise/reviews) Manage, map, analyze, and share Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data with ArcGIS Enterprise, the complete geospatial system that powers your data-driven decisions. ArcGIS Enterprise gives you a secure, browser-based mapping and analytics platform that leverages Esri’s powerful technology and extends your capabilities in the areas of real-time, big data, imagery, and more. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 62 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS Enterprise?** - **Data Capture:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS Enterprise?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Government Administration, Information Technology and Services - **Company Size:** 51% Mid-Market, 27% Enterprise #### What Are ArcGIS Enterprise's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Analytics (1 reviews) - Collaboration (1 reviews) - Content Creation (1 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) - Integrations (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Dependency Issues (1 reviews) - Expensive (1 reviews) - Learning Curve (1 reviews) - Software Performance (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About ArcGIS Enterprise? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **powerful analytics** in ArcGIS Enterprise, enhancing decision-making and creativity with extensive mapping options. - Users value the **collaborative features** of ArcGIS Enterprise, enhancing teamwork and improving workflow efficiency across projects. - Users value the **user-friendly content creation** features of ArcGIS Enterprise, enhancing accessibility and collaboration for all skill levels. - Users appreciate the **user-friendly interface** of ArcGIS Enterprise, making it accessible for all skill levels. - Users value the **seamless integrations** of ArcGIS Enterprise, enhancing workflow efficiency and expanding capabilities across Esri products. **Cons:** - Users face **dependency issues** with ArcGIS Enterprise, particularly concerning its reliance on stable internet connectivity. - Users often cite the **high cost** of ArcGIS Enterprise as a significant drawback in their overall purchasing decision. - Users face a challenging **learning curve** with ArcGIS Enterprise, complicating initial use for novice users. - Users report **sporadic performance issues** with ArcGIS Enterprise, which can hinder usability and workflow efficiency. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS Enterprise? **"[Seamless On-Prem Integration and Flexible Enterprise Viewer Licensing](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-enterprise-review-12612597)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Government Administration* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-enterprise-review-12612597) --- **"[Streamlining Spatial Data Management](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-enterprise-review-9273933)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Adam S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-enterprise-review-9273933) --- ### 12. [Mapbox](https://www.g2.com/products/mapbox/reviews) Mapbox is the live location platform preferred by over 4 million developers. Mapbox provides precise location data and flexible developer tools that equip any business to add geospatial features to their applications and enhance operations with location intelligence. Customers span automotive, logistics, business intelligence, retail, travel, data visualization, consumer apps, weather, IoT, geospatial analysis, and beyond. With the leading map rendering technology for web and mobile, Mapbox is known for providing highly performant, customizable, reliable, and scalable location services trusted by developers, companies, and business leaders. Mapbox services include global map data, real-time traffic, geocoding and address search, and routing and directions for navigation. Build with Mapbox via APIs, code libraries, SDKs, and comprehensive developer documentation. Designed for businesses of all sizes, Mapbox is free to start building with and pricing is based on monthly usage, no upfront licenses or contracts required. Mapbox is a global team of 700+ with offices in Washington D.C., Helsinki, and Tokyo. Mapbox was founded in 2010. Today, Mapbox powers the location intelligence of platforms, apps, and brands around the world. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 41 **How Do G2 Users Rate Mapbox?** - **Data Capture:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Mapbox?** - **Seller:** [Mapbox](https://www.g2.com/sellers/mapbox) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** Washington D.C. - **Twitter:** @Mapbox (76,538 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3302167/ (956 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 66% Small-Business, 20% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Mapbox? **"[TruckX Elevates Fleet Operations with Mapbox Maps](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapbox-review-9915680)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Clarissa L.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapbox-review-9915680) --- **"[An essential part of any mapping application](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapbox-review-8932316)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Peter C.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mapbox-review-8932316) --- ### 13. [eSpatial](https://www.g2.com/products/espatial/reviews) eSpatial is cloud-based mapping software that is engineered for the enterprise and designed for the user. We believe mapping should be fast, easy and powerful. With our mapping software, you can easily upload, visualize, and analyze multiple layers of data. It’s rapid visual insight that takes the guesswork out of decision making. We are mapping experts and have been delivering geographic solutions for over twenty years. Trusted by our customers and partners from Fortune 500 companies to non-profit organizations that span nearly every industry, we are committed to helping our users reach their mapping goals. eSpatial has a comprehensive set of features that enables you to visualize, analyze and share your business data currently stored in spreadsheets, CRM or ERP systems. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 38 **How Do G2 Users Rate eSpatial?** - **Data Capture:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind eSpatial?** - **Seller:** [eSpatial Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/espatial-solutions) - **Year Founded:** 1997 - **HQ Location:** Swords, Dublin - **Twitter:** @espatial (1,662 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/43542/ (32 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Marketing and Advertising - **Company Size:** 45% Mid-Market, 29% Enterprise #### What Are eSpatial's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (2 reviews) - User-Friendly (2 reviews) - Customer Support (1 reviews) - Customization (1 reviews) - Customization Options (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Slow Performance (1 reviews) - System Lagging (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About eSpatial? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users admire the **user-friendly interface** of eSpatial, which simplifies data uploads and enhances usability. - Users highlight the **user-friendly interface** of eSpatial, making customization and usability a seamless experience. - Users value the **extremely helpful and quick customer support** , enhancing their overall experience with eSpatial. - Users value the **great customization** options of eSpatial, enhancing usability and serving diverse needs effectively. - Users value the **great customization options** in eSpatial, enabling easy adaptation for diverse needs and scenarios. **Cons:** - Users experience **slow performance** with eSpatial, encountering frustrating freezes that hinder mapping and updating tasks. - Users experience frustrating **system lagging** with eSpatial, causing temporary freezes during mapping and updating tasks. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of eSpatial? **"[Most User Friendly Mapping Tool & White Glove Customer Service!](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/espatial-review-10930684)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Corey M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/espatial-review-10930684) --- **"[Great Mapping Tool Made Easy](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/espatial-review-10930863)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Steven W.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/espatial-review-10930863) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About eSpatial? - [What is the best mapping software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-best-mapping-software) - [Is eSpatial free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-espatial-free) - [What is Batch Geo used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-batch-geo-used-for) - 1 comment - [What does mapping software do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-mapping-software-do) - 1 comment ### 14. [Land id (formerly MapRight)](https://www.g2.com/products/land-id-formerly-mapright/reviews) Land id™ & Land id Pro enables real estate professionals, ranchers, farmers, appraisers, builders, landowners, and anyone curious about land to discover extensive private parcel data, create & showcase powerful, shareable, interactive maps. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 15 **How Do G2 Users Rate Land id (formerly MapRight)?** - **Data Capture:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Land id (formerly MapRight)?** - **Seller:** [Land id](https://www.g2.com/sellers/land-id) - **Year Founded:** 2014 - **HQ Location:** Dallas, TX - **Twitter:** @landidofficial (1,410 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/landidofficial/ (48 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 80% Small-Business, 13% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Land id (formerly MapRight)? **"[MapRight- Very easy to use](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/land-id-formerly-mapright-review-9146614)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Namita J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/land-id-formerly-mapright-review-9146614) --- **"[The All Time Best Property Communications.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/land-id-formerly-mapright-review-9381516)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Yerson C.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/land-id-formerly-mapright-review-9381516) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Land id (formerly MapRight)? - [What is LandVision used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-landvision-used-for) - [Is the MapRight app free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-the-mapright-app-free) - [What does MapRight cost?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-mapright-cost) ### 15. [GeoServer](https://www.g2.com/products/geoserver/reviews) Designed for interoperability, GeoServer publishes data from any major spatial data source using open standards. GeoServer implements industry standard OGC protocols such as Web Feature Service (WFS), Web Map Service (WMS), and Web Coverage Service (WCS). Additional formats and publication options are available as extensions including Web Processing Service (WPS), and Web Map Tile Service (WMTS). **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 20 **How Do G2 Users Rate GeoServer?** - **Data Capture:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind GeoServer?** - **Seller:** [GeoServer](https://www.g2.com/sellers/geoserver) - **Year Founded:** 2020 - **HQ Location:** İstanbul, İstanbul - **Twitter:** @geoserver (20 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/geoserver/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Environmental Services - **Company Size:** 52% Small-Business, 40% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of GeoServer? **"[Share your geospatial data without any hiccup's](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/geoserver-review-4964744)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Bipin K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/geoserver-review-4964744) --- **"[Great opensource solution](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/geoserver-review-4432788)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Richard M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/geoserver-review-4432788) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About GeoServer? - [What is GeoServer used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/geoserver-what-is-geoserver-used-for) - [How do I download a GeoServer?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-download-a-geoserver) - [How do I log into GeoServer?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-log-into-geoserver) - [How does GeoServer work?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-does-geoserver-work) - [What is GeoServer used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-geoserver-used-for) ### 16. [ArcGIS Desktop](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-desktop/reviews) Integrated collection of GIS software products; provides a standards-based platform for spatial analysis, data management, and mapping. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 17 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS Desktop?** - **Data Capture:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS Desktop?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Small-Business, 33% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS Desktop? **"[Powerful and user friendly tool](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-desktop-review-8497891)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Noy C.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-desktop-review-8497891) --- **"[ArcGIS Desktop is just what you need!](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-desktop-review-8698155)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Ali K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-desktop-review-8698155) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ArcGIS Desktop? - [What is ArcGIS Desktop used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-arcgis-desktop-used-for) ### 17. [Bing Maps API](https://www.g2.com/products/bing-maps-api/reviews) Bing Maps provides multiple API options for your application including an AJAX control, a Windows Store apps control, a WPF control etc. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 12 **How Do G2 Users Rate Bing Maps API?** - **Data Capture:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Bing Maps API?** - **Seller:** [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft) - **Year Founded:** 1975 - **HQ Location:** Redmond, Washington - **Twitter:** @microsoft (13,091,739 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/microsoft/ (231,632 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** MSFT **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 42% Mid-Market, 33% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Bing Maps API? **"[Great Bing Maps Experience!](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bing-maps-api-review-5365981)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Michaela H.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bing-maps-api-review-5365981) --- **"[Best Map](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bing-maps-api-review-6679668)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— T S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bing-maps-api-review-6679668) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Bing Maps API? - [What is Bing Maps API used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-bing-maps-api-used-for) ### 18. [Azure Maps](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-maps/reviews) Azure Maps provides developers from all industries, powerful geospatial capabilities, packed with fresh mapping data necessary to provide geographic context to web and mobile applications. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 12 **How Do G2 Users Rate Azure Maps?** - **Data Capture:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Azure Maps?** - **Seller:** [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft) - **Year Founded:** 1975 - **HQ Location:** Redmond, Washington - **Twitter:** @microsoft (13,091,739 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/microsoft/ (231,632 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** MSFT **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Enterprise, 50% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Azure Maps? **"[Azure Maps is flexible and developer friendly if you want to add maps to your app](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/azure-maps-review-3756993)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Transportation/Trucking/Railroad* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/azure-maps-review-3756993) --- **"[Benefits of azure maps](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/azure-maps-review-3769555)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Darshan J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/azure-maps-review-3769555) --- ### 19. [Oracle Spatial](https://www.g2.com/products/oracle-spatial/reviews) Oracle Spatial and Graph supports a full range of geospatial data and analytics for land management and GIS, mobile location services, sales territory management, transportation, LiDAR analysis and location-enabled Business Intelligence. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 25 **How Do G2 Users Rate Oracle Spatial?** - **Data Capture:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Oracle Spatial?** - **Seller:** [Oracle](https://www.g2.com/sellers/oracle) - **Year Founded:** 1977 - **HQ Location:** Austin, TX - **Twitter:** @Oracle (827,997 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1028/ (208,078 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NYSE:ORCL **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 44% Mid-Market, 40% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Oracle Spatial? **"[Good experience](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/oracle-spatial-review-8005947)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Sony C.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/oracle-spatial-review-8005947) --- **"[Great for expanding businesses](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/oracle-spatial-review-8589871)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Shreyasi S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/oracle-spatial-review-8589871) --- ### 20. [ZeeMaps](https://www.g2.com/products/zeemaps/reviews) ZeeMaps is a company that allows a consumer to make and publish maps that are interactive. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 34 **How Do G2 Users Rate ZeeMaps?** - **Data Capture:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ZeeMaps?** - **Seller:** [ZeeMaps](https://www.g2.com/sellers/zeemaps) - **HQ Location:** Cupertino, California - **Twitter:** @zeemaps (1,001 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1966103/ (2 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer Software - **Company Size:** 59% Mid-Market, 24% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ZeeMaps? **"[Very Helpful!](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/zeemaps-review-7243538)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Brooke B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/zeemaps-review-7243538) --- **"[Powerful and easy to build maps](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/zeemaps-review-6537023)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Raúl S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/zeemaps-review-6537023) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ZeeMaps? - [What is ZeeMaps used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-zeemaps-used-for) ### 21. [Octave GeoMedia](https://www.g2.com/products/octave-geomedia/reviews) GeoMedia is a powerful, flexible GIS management platform that lets you aggregate data from a variety of sources and analyze them in unison to extract clear, actionable information. It provides simultaneous access to geospatial data in almost any form and displays it in a single unified map view for efficient processing, analysis, presentation, and sharing. GeoMedia’s functionality makes it ideal for extracting information from an array of dynamically changing data to support making informed, smarter decisions. **Average Rating:** 3.9/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 22 **How Do G2 Users Rate Octave GeoMedia?** - **Data Capture:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Octave GeoMedia?** - **Seller:** [Octave](https://www.g2.com/sellers/octave-9e5a428c-f303-4735-9417-dff1ef5736d4) - **HQ Location:** Madison, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/octaveintelligence/ (3,001 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 58% Small-Business, 31% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Octave GeoMedia? **"[Easy user-friendly software](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/octave-geomedia-review-8226612)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Ahmed S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/octave-geomedia-review-8226612) --- **"[Easy to use and very useful.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/octave-geomedia-review-8227840)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Ahmed Kamal A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/octave-geomedia-review-8227840) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Octave GeoMedia? - [What is GIS system software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-gis-system-software) - [Is GeoMedia free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-geomedia-free) - [Who uses GeoMedia?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/who-uses-geomedia) - [Is GeoMedia a GIS software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-geomedia-a-gis-software) ### 22. [Global Mapper](https://www.g2.com/products/global-mapper/reviews) Global Mapper’s intuitive user interface and logical layout help smooth the learning curve and ensure that users will be up-and-running in no time. To add to the usability, nearly 400 file formats are supported for import and export. This all-in-one software allows users to complete their entire workflow within the same software with tools such as contour creation, watershed analysis, and multiband raster calculations. Top Tools Include: • Access to online data sources for streaming imagery, terrain and vector data • Immersive 3D visualization • Workflow automation with scripting • Site plan with cut and fill analysis • Generate terrain models (REM, DSM, and DEM) • Terrain analysis including contour generation and path profile Global Mapper Pro® expands upon the extensive functionality of the standard version of the application. Users can take advantage of the comprehensive collection of tools for advanced 3D analysis, lidar and photogrammetric point cloud processing, drone-collected image analysis, Python scripting methods, machine-learning integration and much more. Award-winning machine learning has been integrated with the beloved automatic point cloud classification. In addition to the built-in models for auto-classifying ground, building, vegetation and powerline points, custom classes can be created by users. Top Tools Include: • Pixels to Points: Photogrammetric toolset • Filtering and editing of lidar point clouds • Automatic classification of ground, vegetation, buildings, power lines, and poles • Terrain Painting • Solar analysis from loaded terrain and 3D features • Global Mapper Insight and Learning Engine: Deep-learning powered object detection and land cover classification Developed for both GIS professionals and map enthusiasts, Global Mapper® has all the functionality you need in a GIS software. Take GIS into the field with Global Mapper Mobile. This iOS and Android application makes viewing and collecting data on-the-go easy. • Display vector, raster, and elevation layers • Drawing, tracing and form-based collection • Connection to GNSS and GPS receivers • Terrain Analysis: contour creation, volume calculation and viewshed **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 30 **How Do G2 Users Rate Global Mapper?** - **Data Capture:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Global Mapper?** - **Seller:** [Blue Marble](https://www.g2.com/sellers/blue-marble) - **Year Founded:** 1993 - **HQ Location:** Hallowell, ME - **Twitter:** @BlueMarbleGeo (1,854 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1283871/ (56 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Oil & Energy, Civil Engineering - **Company Size:** 40% Mid-Market, 33% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Global Mapper? **"[Alittle complicated but provides useful results](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/global-mapper-review-7343552)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Animation* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/global-mapper-review-7343552) --- **"[Global Mapper is very good tool for quick Spatial Analysis](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/global-mapper-review-8491139)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jagrati J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/global-mapper-review-8491139) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Global Mapper? - [What is Global Mapper used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-global-mapper-used-for) - [How do you classify LiDAR data in Global Mapper?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-you-classify-lidar-data-in-global-mapper) - [How do I create a shape file in Global Mapper?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-create-a-shape-file-in-global-mapper) - [How do I activate Global Mapper?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-activate-global-mapper) - [How much does Global Mapper cost?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-much-does-global-mapper-cost) ### 23. [GRASS](https://www.g2.com/products/grass/reviews) GRASS is an open-source GIS package that provides tools and programs that can be sued for data management, image processing, graphic production, spatial modelling, and visualization of GIS data. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 16 **How Do G2 Users Rate GRASS?** - **Data Capture:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind GRASS?** - **Seller:** [OSGeo](https://www.g2.com/sellers/osgeo) - **Year Founded:** 2013 - **HQ Location:** Amstelveen, NH - **Twitter:** @OSGeo (29,946 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/osgeo-nl/ (2 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 59% Mid-Market, 29% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of GRASS? **"[A very important GIS analysis tool](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grass-review-3108541)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Miriam W.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grass-review-3108541) --- **"[Works splendid as a gis analysis tool](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grass-review-3061217)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Brian K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grass-review-3061217) --- ### 24. [SAGA GIS](https://www.g2.com/products/saga-gis/reviews) SAGA is the abbreviation for System for Automated Geoscientific Analyses. SAGA provides an easily approachable user interface with many visualisation options. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 17 **How Do G2 Users Rate SAGA GIS?** - **Data Capture:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Data Visualization:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) - **Spatial Analysis:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind SAGA GIS?** - **Seller:** [SAGA GIS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/saga-gis) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 56% Mid-Market, 33% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SAGA GIS? **"[Good Open-Source Geo-Analytics Software](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/saga-gis-review-8738317)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Amol S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/saga-gis-review-8738317) --- **"[Review on SAGA GIS](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/saga-gis-review-5213961)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— CHANCY S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/saga-gis-review-5213961) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About SAGA GIS? - [What is SAGA GIS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-saga-gis-used-for) ### 25. [ArcGIS for Office](https://www.g2.com/products/esri-arcgis-for-office/reviews) Make maps in Microsoft Excel and further the power of ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise. ArcGIS Maps for Office puts Excel data in the context of location. Use location intelligence to transform your graphs and charts into interactive maps directly in Microsoft Excel to see data from another perspective. Then, use Microsoft PowerPoint to share your map. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 16 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS for Office?** - **Ease of Use:** 6.9/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS for Office?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 65% Mid-Market, 24% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS for Office? **"[ArcGIS Maps of Office turns your XLS into a Web GIS](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-for-office-review-3651562)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— David K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-for-office-review-3651562) --- **"[Quickly create interactive maps from Excel and start the exploration in a completely new way](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-for-office-review-1617052)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Education Management* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-for-office-review-1617052) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ArcGIS for Office? - [What is ArcGIS for Office used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-arcgis-for-office-used-for) ## What Is GIS Software? [CAD & PLM Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-plm) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to GIS Software? - [Location Intelligence Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/location-intelligence) - [Route Planning Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/route-planning-software) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right GIS Software? ### What You Should Know About GIS Software ### What is GIS Software? Geographic information systems, better known as GIS software, are tools that capture, analyze, and display geospatial data to make 2D or 3D maps. These tools act as asset management platforms for the geographic data they capture, meaning GIS technology has the ability to understand patterns and improve operations in land-based operations.  A GIS is a technology rooted in geographic information science that allows users to dig into geospatial data. The first step in this mapping technology is capturing data. These data types include cartographic, photographic, and digital data to provide a complete picture. GIS programs require both hardware and software, such as the desktop needed to display information. Cartographic data is already in map form and includes information such as the location of rivers, roads, valleys, hills, and more. Data from photographic interpretation analyzes aerial shots of a site. Digital data is collected from satellites that show land use. All varieties of data can be inputted into GIS mapping tools through data capture. As long as it has been digitized, it can be inputted into a GIS program. Once that data has been inputted, GIS technology can transform it into a map. ### Who Uses GIS software? GIS tools power location-based services. This technology is prevalent in a number of other professions: **GIS Specialist** – A GIS specialist is an expert in geographic information systems. They analyze the spatial data stored in the geodatabases within these tools to solve problems related to a specific site or area. For example, a GIS specialist can assess the geospatial data of a region to determine the best escape route and then have the responsibility of mapping out an estimate time needed during a natural disaster. These specialists can create maps of certain areas using GIS technology and use that information to perform duties such as locating special features within a landscape. A GIS specialist can be a full-time career, as a person in this role can act as a consultant to organizations who can benefit from the data extracted from GIS software. While the majority of this work can be conducted remotely from a computer, GIS specialists are sometimes required to visit a site in order to compare the landscape to the data in the GIS system. Those seeking this career path can obtain a GIS certificate from an accredited program; many universities offer GIS degrees as well. **Urban Planner** – An urban planner develops procedures and programs for the use of land. The outcomes are typically mapping out plans to build communities, accommodate growth, revamp local physical facilities, and more. For example, an urban planner might approve plans for a new school to ensure it meets the needs of a growing population. As a community grows and changes, urban planners are there to help manage economic, social, and environmental changes that may arise. Urban planners can be utilized for communities of any size—small towns, large cities, and entire counties. A great deal of data is needed for an urban planner to make an informed decision. They must stay up-to-date on zoning codes, environment regulations, and legal issues. Urban planners must also stay attuned to the landscape in their area and can utilize GIS technology to analyze and manipulate data. GIS software can be used to overlay a land map with population density indicators, which could show the best use for a piece of land. While an urban planner likely needs to perform site visits, they may also utilize a desktop GIS to analyze this data from their own office. **Environmental Scientist** – An environmental scientist assesses the health and stability of a given landscape. This includes a great deal of fieldwork tests and surveys to gather geospatial data, like soil, water, and air samples. The data collected is then analyzed for negative indicators, such as pollution. An environmental scientist’s findings can be collected into an official report that may be presented to policymakers or other organizations concerned about environmental issues. Environmental scientists rely heavily on GIS applications to succeed in their work. These tools capture the geographic information necessary to effectively map out the health of a physical area. This mapping technology has the ability to capture data from all aspects of a landscape—aerial, water, land—and then display as a variety of different maps. These solutions can also map changes in a specific area, which is hugely beneficial to an environmental scientist as it can fuel a course of action or anticipate future land conditions. **Public Health Professionals** – Public health professionals are dedicated to protecting and improving the health of communities. Those in this field are focused more on preventing disease and injury rather than treating it. Public health intersects with a number of more specific fields to improve the health of the community. Epidemiology tracks the distribution and severity of diseases, along with how to prevent them from spreading. Biostatistics applies statistical and mathematical methods to the analysis of public health issues. Environmental health is concerned with the quality of food supply, water and air pollution, and disease prevention. This is where GIS tools come into play. The use of a GIS and the spatial data it captures can help public health professionals come to decisions as well as predict outcomes. For example, public health officials can use GIS technology to map out potential risk from a contaminated water source. A desktop GIS program can also display information such as drug usage in a certain area. **Law Enforcement** – Law enforcement officers can track crime trends within GIS software using crime mapping, which maps, visualizes, and analyzes crime incident patterns within their jurisdictions. These crime hot spots can be identified through the usage of GIS programs. Crime analysts can use a desktop GIS to overlay data sets such as census demographics. With this information, police officers are able to identify physical locations and potentially understand the underlying cause of crime in a certain area. GIS mapping software can also be useful for allocating police officers during emergency situations. ### Why Use GIS software? GIS software is vital for creating maps, but that is not the only application for this technology. These tools capture data that can be utilized by small, mid-sized or enterprise businesses in many fields. A GIS helps users make more informed decisions. When working with a physical location, you need to understand every aspect of it—air, land, water, surrounding area, and more. A GIS captures this array of data, detailing various aspects of a landscape, and stores it all within one platform. Visualizing this data aids in identifying areas of opportunity and potential issues, such as the best route for an evacuation during an impending hurricane. The geospatial data stored within these platforms even helps provide answers about things other than the physical landscape itself. Demographics of the surrounding population, social, real-world business problems, and political information can be gathered using a GIS. Features such as overlaying and data visualization connect the dots and create relationships between seemingly unconnected qualities, such populations with geographic features. For example, if a business needs to open up a new storefront, GIS software can be used to find a site of land near a highly populated area. Data can then be manipulated to account for inevitable population change in the surrounding area. GIS software is specifically designed to visualize data. Reading and understanding statistics and data can be incredibly challenging. Data visualization is a key component of GIS technology, which means that the inputted data will be presented in a clear and comprehensive manner. Using a GIS solution, you can layer your datasets into one image and find the connections between each dataset. Bringing this data to life also allows you to view it from a different perspective, which can provide a fresh insight on a potential problem needing to be solved. You can create multiple maps within GIS platforms, which enables you to track and visualize the change in a certain area over time. GIS technology can assist in conserving natural resources. GIS software has the ability to manage and maintain agricultural, water, and forest resources. These tools easily manage data on forest conditions as well. The geographic distribution of water resources can be analyzed through GIS technology. These two resources are also connected—as tree cover tends to decrease stormwater runoff. GIS software allows for better geographic information record keeping. Many organizations are required to maintain thorough geographic records, such government and environmental science agencies. GIS systems are at the foundation of creating policies such as zoning laws, population censuses, and land ownership. Record keeping is vital when creating and upholding these laws, and GIS technology can store the geographic information necessary. GIS technology can also track the spread of infectious diseases. On top of mapping trends in geographic features, GIS technology is used to follow trends that relate to the spread of disease. Users can leverage desktop GIS solutions to compare geography with other relevant variables and predict where an infectious disease might spread next. This data enables on-the-ground personnel to quickly work to save lives of local residents. GIS software helps automate previously tedious geographic tasks. Before this technology, gathering data needed for any land, environment, map, pipeline, or city planning could be incredibly time consuming, due to the fact that one platform was unable to capture and store data from various sources. In addition, each data sample was collected and stored individually. However, GIS programs act as a repository for this data and convert it into the correct format, if necessary. GIS technology then takes this one step further and allows users to also design, update, and edit in the same platform where their geographic data is stored. These solutions also provide analysis tools, which gives organizations more time to focus on other urgent and critical tasks. Governments can use GIS software to plan more cost-effective communities. Governments rely on thorough planning when it comes to building and expanding their communities. However, government organizations, especially smaller municipal ones, can face difficulty when it comes to the economy. Expanding a community while sources are diminishing gets expensive. GIS technology provides a way for government organizations to expand their communities in the most cost-efficient ways possible, as the data provided by GIS software allows them to make more informed choices about decisions such as land usage and locations of physical facilities. Governments can utilize a free GIS solution to continue to drive costs down. Districts can create more efficient schools with GIS technology. A common issue within communities is needing to redistrict school boundaries as the local population ebbs and flows. GIS programs capture and store addresses for all students at the school. Using feature-based proximity tools, you can manipulate the borders of these zones and a GIS relates the student counts by grade of this proposed boundary. Even after school district zones have been nailed down, these programs can continue to benefit schools. School administrators use GIS technology to analyze the distance students walk to school. If a student lives a certain distance away, GIS tools continue to analyze the data to determine which students are eligible to take school buses. As schools may not a lot of budget dedicated to non-essential technology, they can utilize a free GIS platform for these tasks. Planning for for natural disasters can be done using GIS technology. One of the main uses of this software is protecting the environment. The flip side of that is protecting citizens from potential dangers of their local environment. GIS tools help with risk management by assessing which areas are at risk for natural or man-made disasters. Communities can then take this data and develop preventive measures. And when natural disasters are unavoidable, GIS technology can still help. These tools aid in the planning of emergency evacuation routes and help estimate the damage from floods. In addition, GIS helps local governments document the needs for federal disaster relief funds. ### GIS Software Features While specific features may vary across different GIS solutions, the following features are typically found in geographic information systems: **Data Capture** – This is simply the act of inputting data into a GIS. Relevant data can be grabbed from a number of sources. The software should be able to convert your data to a raster or vector file that will be compatible with your tool. **Remote Sensing Integration** – Remote sensing is making measurements of a specific location on the earth through airplanes or satellites. These sensors have the ability to collect data in the form of images. As part of its data capture functionality, remote sensed imagery should easily integrate with a GIS. **Data Warehouse** – GIS software stores the data on geographical features and their characteristics. It uses that data to publish maps. Just as GIS solutions capture data in multiple formats, said data is stored in multiple formats as well. Map city data can be stored as points, road data formatted as lines, boundaries as areas, and so on. Storing this information is what allows a GIS to identify features located in a map. **Buffer Zone Querying** – Buffer zone querying is the ability to select a point on a map and display any given data within a certain radius. These buffers are used to show an area of influence around a location. For example, a buffer can be used to section off a radius around a school to plan for the transportation of students who live farther away. Some GIS tools may refer to buffer zone querying by other names, such as feature-based proximity tools. **Editing Data** – The features of the landscapes you study change, which means your data will change as well. A GIS will enable you to keep up with these changes by allowing you to edit your data. Specific revision features and processes will vary in each tool, but they should all offer the ability to edit your data. **Data Visualization** – The data visualization component of a GIS is what brings your data to life, in either a 2D or 3D format. A GIS displays the data you input as an easy-to-read map right on your desktop. This function may allow for additional features, such as adding pop-ups, charts, and infographics to maps. **Geocoding** – This feature assigns locations to the addresses you need to keep track of so they may be placed as points on a map. It can be thought of as a interactive digital version of putting a pin on a location on a physical map. Some tools may refer to this feature as address-matching. **Spatial Analysis** – Spatial analysis is at the core of publishing a map, and may be one of the key features of a GIS. This ability allows users to dig into their data and make informed decisions, predict patterns, and more.  **Overlaying** – Overlaying makes it possible to visualize many different forms of data in one image. This function superimposes multiple datasets into one image to identify the relationships between them. Most GIS software provides overlaying capabilities for both vector and raster data. **Publishing Maps** – Creating maps is the end goal of GIS software. All of these features, such as overlaying and data editing, contribute to the creation of a map. Once your data is set, you can simply print the map out on a corresponding printer. Some GIS tools may run one final analysis of your data before printing the final map. ### Potential Issues with GIS Software With its wide range of capabilities and applications, GIS technology offers a plethora of benefits. But that does not mean this software does not come without its challenges. While the data captured and stored in GIS platforms is incredibly beneficial to users, integrating with traditional maps is extremely complex. It can prove difficult to integrate a traditional map with GIS technology. It may not be possible to grab meaningful geospatial information from a GIS, as many only store and analyze the data collected from the platform itself. Reach out to the GIS vendor you select to determine if this integration is possible. GIS software is expensive. These tools are hugely beneficial to users, as it collects a massive amount of data from various points. It can cost a lot to gather, input, and connect all of this data. Corresponding hardware, along with potentially needing to hire an expert in GIS, continues to drive those expenses up. While they may have some limited features, budget-conscious users can leverage a free GIS for their business. Data management can be difficult. It’s great that GIS technology allows users to capture and store large amounts of data, but someone has to comb through all that information. Because there is so much data, this could lead to data generalization, which means you may be at risk for losing information. Large amounts of data also require massive storage space, which increases the cost and manpower required to run your GIS. ### Trends Related to GIS Software **Drone Usage** – Because drones can be easily maneuvered to capture aerial shots, they are a perfect tool for capturing geospatial data. Drones have become more common with businesses and consumers, as they are easy to use, collect data from aerial vantage points, and can convert data in unique ways. Because use of these tools is becoming more widespread, drones are becoming cheaper. **Geospatial Analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT)** – As a subset of spatial analytics, geospatial analytics digs into data that identifies the geographic locations of certain features on the earth, such as oceans. Sensors are needed to pick up this data, which is where IoT comes in. IoT powers positioning sensors, which can locate and track objects using a GPS or relative displacement information. Intelligent things, including objects embedded with AI, send data through mobile networks. This can provide real-time data about factors such as the density of a population in a given area. **Open Data and GIS** – Open data is information that is shared with the public for anyone to freely view and use. This has the potential to be a game changer for GIS software, because that means governments, scientists, city planners, and more can study this information to anticipate how surrounding areas could impact their own community. This technology allows users to understand their environments and how they evolve, as well as anticipate future changes. An open-source GIS has the potential to impact non-land-centric industries. For example, this technology can be used to map out food deserts in specific areas in an effort to combat childhood obesity. If this data is open to the public, health officials can continue to discover additional applications for this information. ### Related Software Categories With its 3D data visualization applications and focus on the environment, GIS is closely related to software categories such as CAD, BIM, and Forestry. [CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad) — CAD software (computer-aided design) is typically used by those in the architecture, engineering and art fields to create 2D and 3D drawings, along with building 3D models of physical objects. While GIS and CAD are two completely different types of technologies, they should typically integrate with one another, as spatial relationships and components are vital to CAD software users. [BIM Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim) — BIM software (building design and building information modeling) is a subcategory of computer-aided design (CAD) products commonly used by architects and those in the construction industry. Many of these products offer tools and libraries specifically targeted for users in these fields, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP). These tools offer a model-based process for designing and managing infrastructures. GIS extends the value of BIM software through data visualization and analysis in the context of both the natural environment and building structures. Attributes within BIM data can easily be converted to GIS features. [Forestry Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/forestry) – Forestry software products are solutions that manage forestry-related tasks like forecasting, operating harvests, tracking inventory and managing contracts. These tools are used to perform functions such as predicting harvest size and assist users in finding the best way to optimize their resources. Companies use the software to predict harvest sizes and optimize their resources, all through a desktop solution. Users can create calendars to manage operations and allocate equipment to complete lumber-related efforts. As both GIS and forestry software concern the environment, these solutions should provide seamless data integration. In fact, some GIS solutions are intended exclusively for forestry work. GIS for forestry offers functions such as the ability to maximize the value of timber, reduce costs, map analytics, and manage forests.