ArcGIS 9.3™

ArcGIS is a scalable family of software comprising a complete geographic information system, built on industry standards, that is rich in functionality and works out of the box. Organizations deploy the software of ArcGIS—ArcView, ArcEditor, ArcInfo, ArcSDE, and ArcIMS—in a configuration appropriate for their needs.

ArcGIS is used for the creation, management, integration, analysis, display, and dissemination of spatial data. Strong visualization, editing, and analysis, along with advanced data management, distinguish the ArcGIS software family as the leading GIS software.


ArcGIS is a scalable family of software comprising a complete geographic information system, built on industry standards, that is rich in functionality and works out of the box. Organizations deploy the software of ArcGIS—ArcView, ArcEditor, ArcInfo, ArcSDE, and ArcIMS—in a configuration appropriate for their needs.

ArcGIS is used for the creation, management, integration, analysis, display, and dissemination of spatial data. Strong visualization, editing, and analysis, along with advanced data management, distinguish the ArcGIS software family as the leading GIS software.

ArcGIS is modular and scalable. It is modular in the sense that you acquire the system in pieces. ArcView provides data visualization, query, analysis, and integration capabilities along with the ability to create and edit simple geographic features. ArcEditor, a brand new software product, includes all the functionality of ArcView and adds the power to create and edit features in a multiuser geodatabase or coverage. ArcInfo includes all the functionality of ArcEditor and adds advanced geoprocessing capabilities. ArcSDE adds database services to the ArcGIS family, while ArcIMS adds Internet services.

ArcGIS is scalable since it can be deployed on an individual desktop or across a globally distributed network of people. Built out of modern object-based components, the range of software programs share the same core applications, user interface, and operating concepts. After you learn one, you understand how to use the others. If you extend one, your custom tool or application works with the others. This makes it easier to learn, teach, program, and produce maps.

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