Open Source GIS Mapping Tools
Not everyone can afford $3000 software such as ESRI's ArcGIS (I still have it on my wish list though). It is no surprise then, that many people are turning to no-cost solutions or even setting out to develop their own GIS mapping software tool. There are many open source GIS applications available today. Open source usually means that the software can be openly developed by a community of software developers, and likewise, openly and freely downloaded by users. While the upside is the affordability, users often sacrifice user support features and software stability. Fortunately, the sources listed below have a large and mostly professional following, with online communities available to offer support on a myriad of issues and questions. Bug fixes and "beta" versions abound, and users will continue to benefit from the ever-developing and improving that comes with open-source applications.
Open source GIS is a great way for beginners to gain experience with geographic information systems without having to fork over thousands of dollars. It also allows professionals to work on projects at home without worrying about asking their employer to pay for an extra license!
| Open Source GIS Mapping Tools |
| MapWindow GIS (This is my top pick!) |
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| GRASS GIS (One of the first open source GIS applications, GRASS is the most tested and well-known) |
| MapServer (Top open source internet mapping application) |
| QuantumGIS (has a slightly higher learning curve than MapWindow GIS, but rapidly becoming a favorite. The user interface is pretty cool) |
| MapBuilder (Build GIS applications within your web browser) |
News and Updates
03-23-08 Added new links to Open Source GIS