When choosing your GIS software, being either a GIS specialist or organisation needing a complete GIS software package, it can be daunting deciphering the functional differences between offerings. For example, what is the difference between ArcView and ArcEditor, and why do the cost so much? Why is MapInfoclassed as more suitable for demographic data? And how can IntelliGIS cost a fraction of the price of ArcEditor yet offer so much functionality? To save you the headache, the software comparison below is a starting point for comparing ArcView, MapInfo, ArcEditor, IntelliGIS and Global Mapper.
Criteria | MapInfo | ArcEditor | IntelliGIS | Global Mapper |
Vendor | Pitney Bowes | ESRI | ISS | Blue Marble Geographics |
Key Features |
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Usability | Regarded as one of the most usable GIS offerings providing XP/Vista style interface. |
Windows 2000 style interfaces look dated, though tools are still intuitive to use. |
Windows XP & Vista Style interface provides familiarity with intuitive visual tools & wizards. |
Very easy to use although the “hidden” features can be rather cumbersome to find. |
Pro’s |
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Con’s |
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Price | US$ 1994 approx. per license. Not pricing is readily available so approach reseller for quote. |
US$7000 per licensing plus maintenance costs. This excludes any ArcInfo functionality which is an additional US$14,000. |
US$ 1000 per license (optional extensions & customisations cost extra) |
$399 per license |
Verdict | Very attractive & user-friendly offering & widely used for more demographic GIS needs. Its moderate price is preferred to ESRI products. For attribute data focused GIS. |
Most extensive, spatially focused GIS, but very costly & restrictive in terms of object model & data formats. Only for very serious spatial GIS Specialists with budget. |
Best value for money given scope of functionality, openGIS, RDBMS use and data formats supported. Choose IntelliGIS! |
Best Value for the money given scope of functionaltiy and supported formats! |
Download Trial | N/A | N/A | N/A | Download Trial |