Written by: Cíntia Miranda
Global Mapper is a robust GIS application that combines a comprehensive array of spatial data processing tools with access to an unparalleled variety of data formats at a genuinely affordable price — license cost begins at $549, a fraction of the cost of competing applications. The latest release includes Remote Desktop Protocol or RDP-enabled licensing for professionals working remotely — a very appropriate tool when many of us are working from home lately.
Developed for both GIS professionals and map enthusiasts, Global Mapper has virtually everything you need in GIS software such as complete interoperability with exceptional data support, powerful data processing in an intuitive interface, extensive raster and vector capabilities, state-of-the-art 3D visualization and analysis, simple installation and setup, and unlimited technical support.
If you’re searching for a robust and affordable GIS application, here are the top ten features of Global Mapper:
1. Built-in online data access with extensive format support
Global Mapper offers a surprisingly extensive collection of free online data sources available for streaming or download as well as the ability to add in custom data sources of your choosing. Providing support for virtually every known spatial file format as well as direct access to common spatial databases, the application can read, write, and analyze virtually any spatial data.
2. Terrain analysis and 3D data processing
Global Mapper’s analysis functions include view shed and line-of-sight modeling, watershed delineation, volume measurement with cut and fill optimization, customized gridding and terrain creation, contour generation, and much more. This is an extensive set of data processing tools for a truly affordable application.
3. Advanced point cloud and lidar processing capabilities
The Lidar Module is an optional add-on to Global Mapper that provides advanced point cloud processing tools, including pixels-to-points for photogrammetric point cloud creation from overlapping drone/UAV images, automatic point cloud classification, feature extraction, terrain hydroflattening, and much more.
4. Data sharing and map publishing tools
When the time comes to share map data, Global Mapper offers numerous options including eye-catching page layout and printing tools, geospatial PDF creation, and direct web publishing to MangoMap, an affordable and easy-to-use online map service. Global Mapper also offers advanced page design and layout tools, including multi-page map book creation.

5. Scripting and batch processing
Global Mapper users can automate most routine data processing functions using simple, text-based scripts or the built-in Batch Processing tool. The scripting language is simple and intuitive with a straightforward command and parameter structure mirroring many of the multi-step procedures that can be performed within the interface.
6. Advanced Image Processing
Global Mapper includes a powerful set of tools for processing imagery or raster layers. The image rectification tool allows any image to be positioned, scaled, aligned, and spatially distorted to create a geographically accurate raster layer. The powerful vector extraction tool can be used to create polygons from a range of colors in a raster layer. Image tiling, mosaicking, blending, cropping, feathering, and visual manipulation options provide the means to adjust the display and characteristics of any raster data layer.
7. Feature label creation and management
Professionals working in cartography say that the format and layout of a well-designed map always need some level of human input. Vector labels in Global Mapper can be assigned to their own layers, which makes formatting, moving, rotating, and deleting individual labels much easier.

8. Digitizing and Vector Editing Tools
When it comes to creating or modifying vector data, Global Mapper’s Digitizer provides a vast array of functions. From simple point, line, and polygon creation to COGO for manual geometric input, the Digitizer has all of the tools you need to create and manage vector layers. Specialized tools are also available for creating a custom grid, buffers, range rings, or virtually any geometric object. Supplementing these drawing tools are a large collection of attribute management and data visualization tools for creating thematic representations of vector data.
9. The ability to record a fly-through path using the fly-mode and walk-mode in the 3D Viewer
Global Mapper not only is able to record fly-through videos, but it also allows users to “draw” a fly-through path by recording their movements in fly-mode and walk-mode in the 3D Viewer. Since the fly-through feature in Global Mapper is an easy way to create videos of 3D data and terrain, it’s commonly used for real estate and property management, planning drone or UAV flight paths, or simply creating a compelling presentation of your GIS data to stakeholders.

10. A free mobile version
Global Mapper Mobile is a free app for iOS and Android devices that offers field viewing and data collection. It displays any supported data from the desktop software, streamlines data collection, and efficiently transfers data into the desktop software. A professional-grade application is also available for purchase from the Apple App and Google Play stores.
There’s much more to Global Mapper! If this list piqued your interest and you’d like to find out if Global Mapper is the right GIS application for you, download a 14-day free trial and request a demo today!