Microsoft map...

What kind of connection would the software giant Microsoft have with a map? Well, Microsoft has certainly not ventured into GIS (Geographical Information System), by any means. However, it has developed mapping solutions that are smart, simple and efficient for everyday business use. Microsoft’s mapping software can be categorized as - Microsoft MapPoint, Microsoft Streets and Trips 2007, and Microsoft Satellite Mapping.

Microsoft offers unique street map software, named Microsoft Streets and Trips. This software helps you to plan your trip. It simplifies all your logistic hassles and map-related problems of your travel plan, when you journey across the US, Mexico or Canada. Microsoft Street Map lets you plan routes, fuel stops and detours according to your choice. You can calculate the time, expenses and mileage before you embark on your journey. You will find everything that you would require, from golf courses to gas stations, and university campuses to casinos in the Microsoft Street Map. You can add multiple destinations or alternative routes, and if you want to share your plan with your friends, you can communicate it online or via email. Microsoft Street & Trips is one of the best-selling travel and map software available in the market. You can use Microsoft Street Map 2006 version for your road adventure. In European markets, the Microsoft Street Map is sold as Microsoft AutoRoute. Briefly, you can plan and customize your trip with a Microsoft Street Map.

Microsoft Maps Live: Live search mapping facility is based on the Virtual Earth platform. It delivers a collection of tools that unite satellite imagery, maps and directions, with local search functions. This is how Microsoft Maps enables users to trace their live location information, and use it or share it according to their requirements. The Microsoft Live search map offers intelligent features like: Virtual Earth 3D API, Virtual Earth ED in Browser, Real Time Traffic Information, Driving Directions, Bird’s Eye Imagery, 2D drawings in collections, Upgraded Virtual Earth Map Control.

MapPoint from Microsoft: Microsoft Map Point is a unique set of products, servers and services that help businesses apply mapping and locations for boosting operational performance. Now, Microsoft MapPoint 2006 is available with a GPS locator, which makes it even easier to locate one’s exact location and destination. Microsoft MapPoint maps and enables customers to track their key enterprise assets, which is useful for simplifying business decisions and reducing operation costs. One can even incorporate maps into Microsoft Office documents. It is specifically designed to visualize and analyze the available data geographically. All the functionality of Microsoft Streets and Trips has been incorporated into the recent versions of Microsoft MapPoint.

Actually targeted at business users, Microsoft MapPoint, due to some GIS related features, competes well in the low-end GIS market. Microsoft has two different versions of MapPoint that cater to the North American and European markets. MapPoint samples and add-ins can be downloaded from the Microsoft website.

Satellite map from Microsoft: The Virtual Earth platform is an amazing combination of satellite imagery, map styles and MapPoint web services. In addition, Virtual Earth incorporates innovations such as bird’s eye view, superior local search, and aerial imagery. Microsoft satellite mapping is especially helpful for logistics businesses and transport operators. Shipping and airline companies may also find it useful. Satellite maps are technically more accurate. They use satellite photography and imaging techniques for the purpose.