It allows users to browse for maps they need, customize them, and print them out. Similarly, we are beginning to see maps that may be downloaded to Palm Pilots or other mobile devices. The advantage of being able to get maps online like this is that they can be easily updated by both the producers and users of maps. Technology has certainly changed the way we use maps. It's fashionable to talk about the convergence of technology, and in the case of maps we are seeing the coming together of ancient know-how, the craft and artistry of mapmaking, with mobile Internet devices that can be updated interactively from the field and shared via the Internet with users everywhere.
Maps frequently help people to make decisions.
They provide critical information. Think of a hiker in the mountains who uses a trail map. It shows a lot of information but it may not show yesterday's snow slide or a bridge that was washed away. With electronic delivery, maps can be updated as soon as the information becomes available. We can update our MapMachines through modems so that customers get the very latest data available.