We’re launching a free evaluation version of GeoField to let people explore new Ordnance Survey maps

There’s been a revolution in UK digital mapping thanks to the opening up of Ordnance Survey (OS) data through the government’s Making Public Data Public initiative. As well as free maps in OS OpenData™, OS have also launched useful new scale products such as VectorMap™ Local.

And with the launch of the Public Sector Mapping Agreement, public sector workers now have access to Ordnance Survey products right up to OS MasterMap®. Mobile working with maps has never been easier, cheaper and – with cost and competitive pressures everywhere – more important. These developments mean that many more organisations can now use digital mapping to streamline and enrich their fieldwork; increase the efficiency and accuracy of mobile data management or try mobile working for the first time.

So how do you use these great new maps? How do you get them into the field? Without specialist software, digital maps are just big data files. You shouldn’t be tied to your desk or need an expensive GIS to take advantage. The whole point of free data is to maximise the appeal of digital mapping and allow everyone to benefit. 

We want to help people make the most of the map revolution. So this month we are launching a free evaluation version of our leading mobile work management, field mapping and data collection tool, GeoField.

Much more than a field map viewer, this feature-rich evaluation version also allows users to explore GeoField’s data capture, survey and map mark-up tools. We think it is a perfect way to explore the new OS products, try working paper-free or evaluate a full fieldworker efficiency project.

Launched in May in conjunction with OS, GeoField Evaluation Version will be initially bundled with a sample of OS VectorMap™ Local and OS OpenData™ layers. All you need is a tablet, laptop or UMPC and a simple OS licence agreement. Watch out for our new link on the OS websites and from our website. We will be watching the response carefully before deciding how best to expand the service. If you are interested, or you know someone who might be, please pass on the good news or get in touch in the usual way.