Table 2 Overview of the features of GeoReveal, GéoClip, and SVGMapMaker

GeoReveal is a powerful .NET application that combines geography and statistics to produce revealing interactive graphics for the Web. It produces fully interactive geo-statistical presentations. There is no requirement for a GIS. GeoReveal uses MID/MIF files that can be exported from practically any GIS.

Other information:

- Unlimited data fields and includes a comprehensive set of pre-defined templates

- Features a simple wizard driven interface and an advanced set of menus for users who need to fine tune the finished output

- Generates SVG data, overlay boundaries, overview and background maps. For UK Local Government users, SVG is also an e-GIF (e-Goverment Interoperability Framework) compliant format

- Presentations can include interactive charts that change to display statistics about the currently selected map region or area

- Map display can be changed after generation, i.e., ability to change map topic, map colour, number of ranges, and classification method

- Includes pre-prepared UK census boundary data and sample projects

GéoClip is a MapBasic program that takes TAB file information and turns it into interactive Macromedia^® Flash presentations. There is also a version for ESRI ArcGIS. GéoClip does not currently have an SVG component.

Other information:

- Written in MapBasic and therefore dependent on having a MapInfo Pro licence

- Does not offer a very intuitive interface

- Limited to ten data fields and to only one page layout

- Users cannot remove the GéoClip logo/branding from the map page

- Can only produce Flash (proprietary format, not e-GIF compliant) and not SVG (open format)

- Some of its unique features like adjustable ranges and multiple themes are planned for the next release of GeoReveal

SVGMapMaker is a MapBasic program that takes TAB file information and uses it to replicate limited GIS functionality in a browser window. It cannot be considered as a geo-statistical tool, as the level of interactivity is limited. For example, there are no interactive charts as provided in GeoReveal.

Other information:

- Written in MapBasic and therefore dependent on having a MapInfo Pro licence

- Limited interface – no ability to change map topic and no statistical delivery

- Map display cannot be changed after generation, i.e., no ability to change map colour, number of ranges, and classification method