When someone hears the phrase “GPS” in the modern world, they automatically assume that a “global positioning system” is being discussed. Unfortunately, that is not always the case because GPS also means Global Mapper Software and GPS mapping of this kind is something much more than a way of finding someone’s position on a map.

GPS mapping uses GIS technology to pull together highly complex sets of data, detailed maps, and other geographic information to create a very specific and complex final image. This might mean that a client using GPS mapping software can create a truly three-dimensional map, or it could mean that they use the data to figure out the exact distances between two points using mountain heights and true terrain data.

Does this mean that someone has to have a thorough understanding of the various engineering and mathematical equations used in such calculations? Absolutely not! The main purpose of GPS mapping is to allow anyone to easily access large amounts of data (either online or through unique data sets) and create accurate maps or results from combining the data.

The program automatically applies any required functions and calculations. It is also capable of using special graphical effects to create optimal results as well. For example, the rendering of a three dimensional map will require any existing topographical maps, aerial images, and data to be combined and edited for best results. Additionally, the program’s capacity for advanced functions, including contour generation and image rectification mean that such results are easy to create.

Anyone familiar with a program like Adobe Photoshop will be able to quickly adapt to the functions in the GPS mapping program. This is because it uses the “layers” concept in the same manner as the photographic program. It allows the individual to stack up existing maps and align them in a way that provides a very accurate image or rendering of the landscape in question.