August 14, 2006

Choosing the best mapping software

Choosing_mapping_softwareToday we're going to begin a series of posts that look at mapping software choices -- a complex decision that can befuddle the most rabid and tech savvy GPS enthusiast.

Much of what I say here will be opinion; I'll tell you what my favorite mapping programs are, but I'll also tell you why. It may be because they do an outstanding job meeting everyday needs, implement popular features exceptionally well, or use intuitive interfaces that dramatically reduce the learning curve. I'll also highlight programs that do what the others don't, giving you powerful tools for atypical needs.

These programs were all featured in my book, GPS Mapping - Make Your Own Maps, in more detail. Consider this a short course. So check in frequently over the next week or two. I'll cover a wide range of options that will help you meet your mapping needs.

Other posts in this series:

Aug 14, 2006 9:56:00 AM | Software

6 Comments

Arnaud

Hi,

Seems interesting to me but, I went ahead and looked at your book which I consider buying, but it seems to me that you missed one very interesting piece of software here and that is the German/Canadian Duo TTQV/PathAway... The first one (TTQV) is on Windows but works well in Parallels Emulator on Intel Macs, the second one (PathAway) is available both for Pocket PCs and for Palm and the two talk well together... ;-)

I am NOT affiliated to any of those brands but this is the setup that I am considering right now...

Thanks... I'll be reading you with interest !

Posted by: Arnaud | August 25, 2006 at 07:01 AM

Rich Owings

Thanks Arnaud. I definitely focus more on software for the U.S., though the next installment in this series will have broader appeal. And I don't do much with PDA software either. I have heard good things about TTQV though.

Posted by: Rich Owings | August 25, 2006 at 10:09 AM

amos

What about DeLorme's Topo software? Seems like a they fit the bill for cd based mapping software...

Posted by: amos | March 12, 2008 at 12:50 AM

Rich Owings

A lot of people like DeLorme's software, and it has some strong points. But (IMHO) the user interface is very cumbersome and unintuitive, and there is a huge learning curve.

Posted by: Rich Owings | March 12, 2008 at 08:52 AM

tommy dee

I'd say you gave DeLorme what they deserved. After five versions (duh) I still can't believe how incredibly bad the interface is. It's like they are looking to earn some bad design award. Don't even try to talk to their support people. Ugg.

Posted by: tommy dee | March 14, 2008 at 05:40 AM

Rich Owings

No argument on the DeLorme interface, but they have developed a great support reputation in recent years. Their forums are excellent...
http://forums.delorme.com/

Posted by: Rich Owings | March 14, 2008 at 08:00 AM

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CD-based mapping software: National Geographic TOPO! We'll start this series off with CD (or DVD) -based mapping software to use with (not on) your GPS. In this category, you typically buy a package that has all the topo maps for an entire state, usually for around $100 retail. This is a great deal for your home state, but could get expensive for those with a serious case of wanderlust! Most of these programs are relatively simple to learn, and most produce great printed maps for field use as well. National Geographic TOPO! My favorite software in this category is National Geographic TOPO! (Amazon). It is fairly straightforward and easy to learn, and a number of common features are well designed. One example is that you can construct routes from existing waypoint names. You would think that would be a no brainer for the designers of these programs, but sadly, too many software packages lack this feature. Other small advantages that end up being very helpful include the ability to split tracks, and the fact that you are automatically taken to the name field when you click to place a waypoint. These are just a few examples from this user-friendly program. Of course there are downsides to...

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