SIBIZ, a leading provider of geospatial collaboration software solutions, has released a new MAPSTIX product which provides easy access to topographic maps. The 1:50,000 and 1:250,000 scale maps covering New Zealand are provided in GeoPDF format on a specially designed USB flash memory device. The go anywhere device allows access to the mapping at anytime without the need for internet connectivity. The GeoPDF format can be viewed using the free Adobe Reader application and also allows the user to view coordinates, integrate GPS tracking, and measure areas and distances using the Terrago Toolbar.
The high quality maps contained on the MAPSTIX are the topographic maps produced by the national mapping authority, Land Information New Zealand, and are used by Emergency Services. The MapBook design allows users to pan to adjoining maps and instantly pinpoint more than 50,000 named locations.
“The plug and play MAPSTIX products are designed with ease of use in mind, yet they still provide valuable GIS functionality and effective collaboration features,” said Brian Spier, Director of SIBIZ. “The GeoPDF format caters for a wide range of users including recreational, administrative, environmental and emergency response.”
MAPSTIX users are able to mark up the maps with comments in the form of points, lines and polygons. These GeoMarks can be exported in shape or KML format and shared with others. GeoMarks may be used to describe features such as walking routes, access points, fire fronts, meeting points and environmental damage areas. The collaboration feature provides a simple method for the capture of spatial information by non-GIS savvy users in the field. GPX files can also be loaded into the GeoPDF files.
MAPSTIX are available for the North and South Islands and can be obtained from the online store at www.mapstix.com or from retail outlets stocking map products. MAPSTIX products for other countries are planned for release in 2011.