ArcGIS Online and Map Packages

ArcGIS, like most modern software, is moving increasingly in the direction of web-based applications and solutions.  This development and integration of online GIS was nascent in the version of the program I used last in about 2009, but has evolved into an exceedingly effective and pragmatic component of ESRI's ArcGIS.  This week finds us exploring a couple of ESRI's tutorials, and practicing the creation and optimization of map packages.

A map and/or tile package is a convenient means of sharing map data over the internet, as it allows users to share GIS maps without the usual networked database connections to access data sources.  Above is a screenshot of a map package (MPK), created to share on the internet.  The above MPK can be combined with a tile package (TPK) of basemap data, and would present a creative solution for an organization to share map data among members.

The above is a screenshot of an optimized map package.  Optimization is the process of selecting the most appropriate map data to share, using the most appropriate symbology.  Any and all practice in making these decisions is invaluable to those practicing to become able GIS professionals- that much I know personally to be true, even with my limited experience.  I honestly hope that this course makes use of these online resources further at some point, as those particular areas of expertise will likely only become more lucrative in the future.