MapWindow GIS
MapWindow GIS is an open-source geographic information system (GIS) software for viewing, editing, and analyzing spatial data. It supports many common GIS data formats and allows creating maps with layers, symbols, labels, and more.
opensource
gis
spatial-data
mapping
data-visualization
MapWindow GIS: Open-Source GIS Software
MapWindow GIS is an open-source geographic information system (GIS) software for viewing, editing, and analyzing spatial data. It supports many common GIS data formats and allows creating maps with layers, symbols, labels, and more.
What is MapWindow GIS?
MapWindow GIS is a free and open-source geographic information system (GIS) software developed by Idaho State University. It allows users to view, manage, edit, analyze, and visualize spatial data for a wide range of applications. Some key features of MapWindow GIS include:
- Support for common data formats like shapefiles, rasters, .Net classes, PostGIS, etc.
- A user-friendly graphical interface to visualize, query, and overlay vector and raster data
- Powerful editing and geoprocessing tools for attribute data management, feature creation/modification, coordinate conversion, etc.
- Spatial analysis functions like buffering, clipping, dissolving, intersecting, union, and more
- Ability to produce publication-quality maps with elements like scale bars, north arrows, legends, labeling, etc.
- Plugin architecture to extend functionality by adding new menus, tools, and dockable windows
- Available for Windows operating systems and can be run as a standalone application or deployed through .NET framework
With its rich feature set for GIS data processing and mapping functionality, MapWindow GIS serves as a good open-source alternative to commercial products like ArcGIS for basic to intermediate geospatial data users and analysts.
MapWindow GIS Features
Features
- View, edit and analyze spatial data
- Support for many common GIS data formats
- Create maps with layers, symbols, labels
- Spatial analysis and geoprocessing tools
- Plugin architecture to extend functionality
- Compatible with Windows, Linux and MacOS
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Free and open source
User-friendly interface
Support for many data formats
Active user community and documentation
Cons
Less functionality than proprietary GIS software
Limited native analysis tools
Steep learning curve for new users
Official Links
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