Mapping refers to the process of creating visual representations of data or information, typically on a geographic or spatial basis. Maps can be used to represent a wide range of information, including physical features such as terrain and land use, demographic information such as population density, and social or cultural information such as the distribution of political boundaries, languages, or religions.
Mapping can be done using a variety of tools and technologies, ranging from simple paper maps to advanced computer software and online mapping platforms. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software is a common tool used for mapping, which allows users to create, edit, and analyze spatial data.
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TimelineJSTell stories on the web that highlight the locations of a series of event and publish them on other platforms. | Free, Open SourceBrowser | ![]() |
Digital Storytelling, Mapping, Timelines, Visualizations |
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Google Earth Explore sattelite imagery of the world and incorporate it into your projects. |
FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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geocodio Geocode and data match US and Canadian addresses. |
FreemiumBrowser, Linux, Mac, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping |
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FreeVectorMapsFind vector maps that can be downloaded for free. | Free, One-time costBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping, Repository |
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HistorypinPlot historical photos, videos and audio onto a digital map and share your work with others. | FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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GeoNames Search and download place names, population statistics, physical landmarks and download for free. |
FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Glossary, Mapping, Repository |
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VisualEyesCombine images, maps, charts, video and data into dynamic and interactive environment, with a focus on research and education. | FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Digital Storytelling, Mapping |
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TimemapperCreate timelines and maps from Google Sheets. | Free, Open SourceBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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PalladioVisualize your data, making maps, graphs, tables, and galleries. | Open SourceBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping, Visualizations |
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ArcGIS StoryMaps Create interactive stories with a spatial element and publish them on other platforms using ArcGIS. |
Academic Licensing, SubscriptionBrowser, Windows | ![]() |
Digital Storytelling, Mapping |
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ArcGIS Online Use the online version of this software to complete most general GIS functions and publish and embed your work. |
Academic LicensingBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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MapScholarCreate atlases and geospatial visualizations to be used in course instruction. The platform provides a suite of tools for image processing, text and graphic annotations and geo-referencing. | Free, Open SourceBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping, Open Educational Resources |
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ProjTransform geospatial coordinates from one coordinate reference system to another. | Free, Open SourceLinux, Mac, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping |
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UshahadiCrowdsource and map data. | FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Crowdsourcing, Mapping |
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UshahidiAccess collaborative crowdsourcing and mapping. | FreemiumBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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ArcGIS Pro Prepare data visualizations and complete advanced analysis and development of geographic systems using this powerful, industry-standard tool. |
Academic LicensingWindows | ![]() |
Mapping |
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ShivaAdd graphical and data-driven visualizations to websites. Users can create elements such as data, charts, maps, images, timelines and video. | FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Digital Storytelling, Mapping, Timelines, Visualizations |
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Tableau Public Collaborate on the creation of interactive data reports, visulalizations, and dashboards using mulitiple data sources. |
FreeMac, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping, Visualizations |
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GPS VisualizerConvert geographic data and build maps. | FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping |
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Google Looker Studio Collaborate on the creation of interactive data reports, visulalizations, and dashboards using mulitiple data sources. |
FreeBrowser | ![]() |
Mapping, Visualizations |
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Tableau Collaborate on the creation of interactive data reports, visulalizations, and dashboards using mulitiple data sources. |
Academic Licensing, SubscriptionMac, Server, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping, Visualizations |
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CartographiaMapping for Mac | One-time cost, SubscriptionMac | ![]() |
Mapping |
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CartoUse geographic information systems mapping and spatial data analysis tools for analysis and publication. | SubscriptionBrowser, Server | ![]() |
Mapping |
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QGIS Use this geographic information system to create, visualise, analyze, and publish geospatial information. |
Free, Open SourceLinux, Mac, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping |
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GDALTranslate over 200 raster and vector geospatial data formats. | Open SourceLinux, Mac, Windows | ![]() |
Mapping, Programming, Transcoding |