QGIS is one of the most popular open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, but it’s not the only option out there. Whether you’re looking for different features, a more intuitive interface, or simply exploring new tools, there are several great alternatives to QGIS. In this article, we’ll break down some of the top GIS software options that you can use for mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization. Let’s dive in and see which might be the right fit for your needs!
1. FlyPix AI
At FlyPix AI, we are committed to transforming the field of geospatial technology through our advanced AI-driven platform. Our solutions are designed to turn complex imagery into precise, actionable insights, enabling efficient and accurate object detection, localization, and monitoring. We cater to a variety of industries, delivering tailored solutions that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. By leveraging our GEO AI platform, clients gain the ability to track environmental changes, optimize urban planning, and much more, all supported by a foundation of robust AI technology.
Our team at FlyPix AI focuses on offering solutions that are not only innovative but also accessible and user-friendly. The interface we provide simplifies the process of visualizing and reporting geospatial data, ensuring that our clients can easily interpret and utilize the information. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also promotes a deeper understanding of the data, leading to more informed decisions and strategic planning. Our commitment extends beyond technology, as we also prioritize the continuous improvement of our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
The core of our operations lies in the versatility of our platform, which is adaptable to multiple use cases across diverse sectors. Whether it is monitoring agricultural developments, managing urban infrastructure, or overseeing environmental conservation, our AI solutions are equipped to provide critical insights. The flexibility of our platform allows us to customize functionalities to align with specific industry requirements, thereby maximizing the relevance and impact of the data provided.
Key Highlights:
- Advanced AI technology for precise geospatial analytics.
- User-friendly interface for easy data visualization and reporting.
- Customizable solutions tailored to diverse industry needs.
- Efficient and accurate object detection, localization, and monitoring.
- Continuous improvement and adaptation to client feedback and industry trends.
Services:
- AI-Enabled Object Detection and Localization
- Detailed Object Analysis
- Change and Anomaly Detection
- Dynamic Tracking
- Custom Use Cases for various industries
Contact Information:
- Website: flypix.ai
- Address: Robert-Bosch-Str. 7, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Contact Email: info@flypix.ai
- Phone Number: +49 6151 2776497
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/flypix-ai
2. Esri
Esri is a software development company specializing in Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Their ArcGIS platform provides tools for spatial analytics and mapping, used across various industries including urban planning, infrastructure, and environmental management. The company offers a wide range of GIS solutions that help users visualize, analyze, and share spatial data, making it a versatile tool for many applications.
ArcGIS Pro, a key product, allows users to work with 2D, 3D, and 4D data for advanced mapping and analytics. The platform supports data sharing across different formats, enabling collaboration within organizations and external partners. Esri’s solutions are used by organizations globally to address challenges through the lens of geographic data.
Key Highlights:
- Offers a comprehensive suite of GIS tools for spatial analysis and data visualization
- Supports 2D, 3D, and 4D mapping capabilities
- Seamless data integration and sharing within the ArcGIS system
- Provides desktop, online, and enterprise GIS platforms
- Global reach with users in various industries including urban planning and environmental management
Services:
- GIS Software Development
- Spatial Data Analysis
- Data Visualization
- Geospatial Infrastructure Services
- GIS Training and Support
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: esri.com
- Address: Ringstrasse 7, 85402 Kranzberg, Germany
- Phone: +49 89 207 005 1200
- Facebook: facebook.com/esrigis
- Instagram: instagram.com/esrigram
- Twitter: twitter.com/Esri
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/esri
3. Golden Software
Golden Software is a developer of data visualization and analysis tools designed to help users transform complex datasets into meaningful visual representations. Their flagship products, Surfer and Grapher, are widely used in scientific and engineering fields to create maps, graphs, and 3D models that support data interpretation and decision-making processes. The company’s tools are crafted for quick learning and application, providing users with the ability to analyze and present data efficiently.
Surfer, a key product from Golden Software, offers extensive features for 2D and 3D data modeling and mapping. It allows users to generate detailed visualizations from geospatial data, providing robust analysis features such as interpolation, cross-sections, and grid-based calculations. These tools enable professionals to communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in data visualization and analysis tools
- Offers products like Surfer and Grapher for 2D/3D mapping and graphing
- Tools designed for quick learning and easy application
- Widely used by scientists, engineers, and professionals across various industries
- Supports robust data analysis, including interpolation and grid modeling
Services:
- 2D/3D Data Visualization
- Geospatial Data Analysis
- Map and Model Creation
- Technical Support and Training
- Software Customization
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: goldensoftware.com
- Address: PO Box 281, Golden, CO 80402-0281 USA
- Phone: 303.279.1021
- Email: info@goldensoftware.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/GoldenSoftware1
- Instagram: instagram.com/golden_software
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/golden-software
4. Mapbox
Mapbox is a location data platform that provides advanced tools for creating customizable maps and navigation experiences. The company offers APIs and SDKs that help developers integrate interactive maps, geospatial data, and location services into applications across various industries. Their products are used for everything from logistics and transportation to real estate and telecommunications, supporting both web and mobile platforms. Mapbox’s technology allows businesses to visualize data in real-time and enhance user experiences through customizable maps and precise navigation tools.
The company’s key offerings include Mapbox Maps, which provides real-time map rendering, and Mapbox Navigation, which supports turn-by-turn directions with traffic-aware routing. Additionally, Mapbox Search enables location-based search, while their data services offer comprehensive global datasets for boundaries, traffic, and movement. Mapbox serves a wide range of industries, including automotive, retail, and business intelligence, to power their location-based services.
Key Highlights:
- Provides APIs and SDKs for customizable maps and navigation
- Supports real-time data rendering for web and mobile applications
- Offers location-based search tools and global datasets
- Solutions for industries such as automotive, logistics, and telecommunications
Services:
- Interactive Map Creation
- Navigation Systems Development
- Location-Based Search
- Geospatial Data Management
- API and SDK Integration
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: mapbox.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/Mapbox
- Instagram: instagram.com/mapbox
- Twitter: twitter.com/mapbox
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/mapbox
5. ALCAD
ALCAD is a CAD software solution offering a cost-effective alternative to AutoCAD, designed to be compatible with DWG files and providing a familiar user interface for those accustomed to AutoCAD. The software is available in both 2D and 3D versions, with options for permanent or annual licenses. ALCAD is equipped with additional MEP/HVAC plugins, making it particularly useful for industries like architecture, engineering, construction, and civil engineering. The software allows for the easy modeling of piping, ventilation ducts, and floor heating systems, with material lists generated from created components.
ALCAD serves over 10,000 users worldwide and has a significant presence in industries that rely on precise engineering detailing and project management. The software is tailored for professionals in the MEP/HVAC field, offering efficient solutions for creating technical installations. It also supports integration with BIM and provides resources like video tutorials and user manuals to help users fully utilize the platform.
Key Highlights:
- DWG compatible with AutoCAD-like user interface
- Available in 2D and 3D versions with MEP/HVAC plugins
- Permanent or annual license options
- Designed for industries such as engineering, architecture, and construction
- Extensive video tutorials and free email support
Services:
- 2D and 3D CAD software
- MEP/HVAC plugins for piping, heating, and ventilation modeling
- Material list extraction from created components
- Permanent license options with no subscription fees
- Support for multiple languages and BIM integration
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: alcads.com
- Address: Software Solution GmbH,Talacker 41,8001 Zürich,Switzerland
- Email: support@alcads.com
- Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ALCADSOFTWARE
- Linkedin: inkedin.com/company/alcadsoftware
6. Maptitude (Caliper Corporation)
Maptitude is a comprehensive GIS and mapping software solution developed by Caliper Corporation. It offers a range of tools for creating visually appealing maps, optimizing routes, and analyzing spatial data. Businesses use Maptitude to make informed decisions by leveraging geographic data, whether through desktop software or an online platform. The software includes extensive built-in demographic data and allows users to integrate data from other programs, making it versatile for a wide range of applications, such as sales territory optimization, site location analysis, and route planning.
The software is designed to help users visualize complex data on a map, identify patterns, and manage resources more efficiently. Maptitude is widely used across industries like retail, healthcare, logistics, and government for tasks ranging from customer location mapping to optimizing delivery routes. It is available at a competitive price point and includes a free country package of GIS data.
Key Highlights:
- Desktop and online mapping software options
- Built-in demographic data for analysis
- Tools for sales territory optimization and route planning
- Integration with Excel, SQL, and more
- Customizable thematic maps, heat maps, and geocoding
Services:
- GIS and mapping software for desktop and online use
- Territory management and sales optimization tools
- Route planning and delivery optimization tools
- Data visualization and analysis for business decisions
- Customizable mapping reports
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: caliper.com/maptitude/mapping-software.htm
- Address: 1172 Beacon St., Suite 300,Newton MA 02461 USA
- Phone: 617-527-4700
- Email: sales@caliper.com
7. Precisely
Precisely is a global data integrity and location intelligence provider, serving more than 12,000 companies in over 100 countries. The company focuses on helping organizations integrate, govern, and enrich their data to support better decision-making. Precisely offers a range of solutions designed to ensure that businesses can trust their data for accuracy and consistency, which is essential for driving insights and business strategies. Their offerings include tools for data integration, validation, enrichment, and location intelligence.
One of Precisely’s flagship products is MapInfo Pro, a geographic information system (GIS) software solution that allows users to visualize, analyze, and interpret spatial data. Businesses use MapInfo Pro for tasks such as territory management, market analysis, and site location optimization. The software provides robust features like geospatial analytics, 3D data visualization, and integration with Python and MapBasic for custom application development. MapInfo Pro is available through both one-time purchase and subscription models.
Key Highlights:
- Solutions for data integrity, governance, and enrichment
- MapInfo Pro for GIS mapping and location intelligence
- Serves 12,000 companies across 100 countries
- Trusted by 93 of the Fortune 100 companies
- Focus on data-driven decision-making
Services:
- Data integration and governance solutions
- Location intelligence and spatial data analysis
- MapInfo Pro GIS software for business mapping and visualization
- Tools for data enrichment and customer engagement
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: precisely.com
- Phone: +1 (877) 700 0970
- Facebook: facebook.com/PreciselyData
- Twitter: twitter.com/PreciselyData
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/preciselydata
8. Blue Marble Geographics
Blue Marble Geographics provides geospatial software solutions aimed at both novice and experienced GIS professionals. Their flagship product, Global Mapper, offers a comprehensive set of tools for spatial data processing, analysis, and visualization. The software supports over 300 file formats, making it versatile for various geospatial tasks, including terrain analysis, 3D visualization, and Lidar processing. Blue Marble also offers a mobile application, Global Mapper Mobile, for field data collection and real-time access to geospatial information.
In addition to Global Mapper, Blue Marble’s product line includes the Geographic Calculator, a tool for advanced geodetic calculations and coordinate transformations. The company caters to industries requiring precise geographic data handling, providing software that addresses both basic and advanced workflows. Global Mapper is available in Standard and Pro versions, each designed to meet different user needs, from simple data visualization to complex point cloud analysis and workflow automation.
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive GIS software with support for over 300 data formats
- Available in Standard and Pro versions with advanced Lidar and 3D capabilities
- Includes Global Mapper Mobile for field data collection
- Geographic Calculator for geodetic and coordinate transformations
- Developed for GIS professionals and enthusiasts
Services:
- GIS software solutions for desktop and mobile
- Lidar processing and point cloud analysis
- Terrain analysis and 3D visualization
- Geodetic calculations and coordinate transformations
- Workflow automation with scripting support
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: bluemarblegeo.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/bluemarble.geographics
- Instagram: instagram.com/bluemarblegeo
- Twitter: twitter.com/BlueMarbleGeo
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/blue-marble-geographics
9. Plus Codes (by Google)
Plus Codes are a digital addressing system developed by Google to provide unique location identifiers for areas that do not have formal street addresses. Based on latitude and longitude coordinates, Plus Codes create a shorter, more manageable sequence of numbers and letters that can be shared easily. This open-source technology is designed to make it simple for individuals, businesses, and governments to reference specific locations worldwide. Plus Codes are already being used in various regions for emergency services, deliveries, and infrastructure projects.
One of the key benefits of Plus Codes is their accessibility. They can be used offline and are language-independent, making them versatile and easy to implement in any setting. The system’s open-source nature also allows developers to integrate Plus Codes into their applications using Google’s APIs. This helps organizations enhance their location services, whether for mapping, logistics, or humanitarian efforts.
Key Highlights:
- Open-source digital addressing system
- Works online and offline
- Language-independent alphanumeric codes
- Shorter and easier to use than traditional latitude/longitude coordinates
- Used globally in regions lacking formal addresses
Services:
- Digital addressing system
- Geolocation API integration for developers
- GIS mapping and grid services add-ons
- Customizable location solutions for businesses and organizations
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: maps.google.com/pluscodes
- Facebook: facebook.com/GoogleMaps
- Twitter: twitter.com/googlemaps
10. PiinPoint
PiinPoint provides a location intelligence platform designed to help businesses optimize their site selection and growth strategies through data-driven insights. The platform integrates data such as demographics, traffic patterns, and customer preferences, enabling users to make informed decisions on where to open new stores or expand their market presence. PiinPoint’s tools are tailored for real estate professionals, retail brands, and franchises looking to enhance their understanding of potential locations and customer behaviors.
With features such as automated site scoring, predictive analytics, and mobile location data integration, PiinPoint enables businesses to evaluate opportunities and forecast store performance. The platform offers various subscription plans, each designed to cater to specific site selection and market analysis needs. PiinPoint’s platform simplifies real estate decisions with its visualization tools and provides actionable insights for long-term network growth.
Key Highlights:
- Location intelligence tools for site selection and market analysis
- Integration of demographic, traffic, and mobile location data
- Predictive analytics for store performance forecasting
- Automated site scores for quick evaluation
Services:
- Trade area analysis
- Predictive analytics and sales modeling
- Site and market comparison tools
- Data integration for real estate planning
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: piinpoint.com
- Phone: 1-(866) 594-6909
- Email: info@piinpoint.com
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/piinpoint
11. what3words
What3words provides a unique addressing system that divides the world into 3-meter squares and assigns each square a unique combination of three words. This system allows for precise location identification, even in areas without traditional street addresses, such as rural locations or parks. The platform is widely used by businesses, emergency services, and individuals to share and locate specific places with ease. By using what3words, organizations can enhance efficiency in logistics, navigation, and customer services.
This solution has proven to be beneficial in various industries, including logistics, e-commerce, and emergency response, where accurate location identification is critical. The technology supports a wide range of applications, from last-mile deliveries to helping emergency teams locate people in distress. With availability in over 50 languages, what3words is accessible worldwide and supports millions of users daily.
Key Highlights:
- Divides the world into 3-meter squares, each assigned three unique words
- Widely used by businesses, emergency services, and consumers
- Supports over 50 languages and is used in 193 countries
Services:
- Location identification and sharing
- Last-mile delivery optimization
- Integration for navigation and ride-hailing services
- Support for emergency services
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: what3words.com/about
- Phone: +447401265449
- Email: support@what3words.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/what3words
- Instagram: instagram.com/what3words
- Twitter: twitter.com/what3words
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/what3words
12. LISEGA
LISEGA is a global provider specializing in the design and manufacturing of pipe supports and vibration control technology for various industries, including power plants, petrochemicals, LNG facilities, and solar plants. Through its innovative LICAD software, LISEGA enables users to design, develop, and construct pipe support systems efficiently. The software automates processes and allows users to generate detailed drawings and material lists, significantly reducing design time and costs. LICAD also integrates seamlessly with leading 3D design systems and calculation programs commonly used in plant construction.
LICAD 12.0, the latest version of the software, offers several enhancements such as new pipe clamps and supports designed for high-temperature environments. With features like the ability to export 3D models and manage projects in multi-user environments, LICAD continues to be a valuable tool for engineers in various industries. The software is available free of charge for LISEGA customers, providing a highly automated and customizable solution for pipe support design.
Key Highlights:
- LICAD 12.0 offers new pipe clamps and supports for temperatures up to 620°C
- Integration with various 3D design systems like AutoCAD, BricsCAD, and TEKLA Structures
- Multi-user environment support for project collaboration
Services:
- Pipe support design and layout software (LICAD)
- Vibration control solutions
- Application engineering and field service
- Testing services through the LIMALAB test laboratory
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: lisega.de/en/licad
- Address: KDMM s.r.o.,Eliásovce c. 6, 930 38 NOVÝ ZIVOT, Slovakia
- Phone: +421 31 569 2201
- Email: info@kdmm.sk
- Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075654769280
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/lisega
13. GIS Cloud
GIS Cloud provides a platform for real-time collaborative mapping, data collection, and sharing. The company’s solutions are designed for users who need to gather, manage, and visualize spatial data efficiently, whether in the field or the office. With GIS Cloud’s Mobile Data Collection app, users can collect data offline and sync it when online, enabling flexible field operations. The platform offers tools like the Map Editor for managing teams, tasks, and projects in real-time, making data management and collaboration easier for organizations in sectors like civil engineering, utilities, and government.
GIS Cloud offers a variety of applications that support different workflows, such as creating, editing, and sharing maps with stakeholders using the Map Viewer and Map Portal. These tools allow users to visualize points of interest, share maps with the public, and make decisions based on real-time data. The platform can be used online, offline, or installed on-premises, offering flexibility and scalability for various industries.
Key Highlights:
- Real-time data collection and synchronization via the Mobile Data Collection app
- Online, offline, and on-premises options for flexibility
- Map Editor and Map Portal for collaboration and sharing
Services:
- Mobile Data Collection
- Map Editor
- Map Viewer
- Map Portal
- Crowdsourcing
- Custom app development using APIs
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: giscloud.com
- Address: Cheapside 107, EC2V 6DN, London UK
- Phone: +1-917-675-4856
- Email: info@giscloud.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/giscloud
- Instagram: instagram.com/giscloud
- Twitter: twitter.com/giscloud
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/gis-cloud
14. Mapnik
Mapnik is a geospatial visualization and processing library designed to produce high-quality maps through pixel-perfect image rendering and fast cartographic algorithms. It offers interfaces in multiple programming languages, including C++, Python, and Node.js, making it flexible for a wide range of geospatial applications. The platform provides tools for building detailed maps using a simple XML stylesheet configuration, enabling users to style maps with polygon and line symbolizers for various layers.
Mapnik is widely used in large-scale mapping projects such as OpenStreetMap, Mapbox, and CartoDB. It supports seamless integration with shapefiles and other geospatial data formats, allowing users to create visually appealing maps efficiently. The library is open-source and continually updated, with the latest version offering enhanced performance and new features for geospatial data processing and visualization.
Key Highlights:
- Supports multiple programming languages (C++, Python, Node.js)
- XML-based configuration for styling and data integration
- Used by platforms like OpenStreetMap and Mapbox
Services:
- Geospatial data rendering
- Cartographic styling with XML
- Integration with shapefiles and geospatial data
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: mapnik.org
15. Pix4D
Pix4D is a software company specializing in photogrammetry and drone mapping solutions. Their products allow users to capture, process, and analyze data from aerial and terrestrial imagery, transforming it into digital maps, 3D models, and other geospatial outputs. Pix4D’s software supports a wide range of industries, including construction, surveying, agriculture, and environmental management. The company’s offerings provide a seamless workflow from data capture to project visualization and collaboration.
Among their key products is PIX4Dmapper, which facilitates the creation of 2D maps and 3D models using photogrammetry. Users can capture images with any camera or drone and process them into detailed models for measurement and analysis. Additional software like PIX4Dcloud and PIX4Dmatic extends these capabilities to online processing and large-scale projects, respectively, allowing for broader applications in industries requiring large image sets and rapid data processing.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in photogrammetry and drone mapping software
- Supports 2D and 3D mapping, measurement, and analysis
- Compatible with various cameras and drones for data capture
- Provides online and desktop processing options
- Applicable across multiple industries, including construction and agriculture
Services:
- Photogrammetry Software Development
- Drone Mapping Solutions
- 3D Modeling and Mapping
- Training and Workshops
- Data Processing and Analysis
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: pix4d.com
- Address: Route de Renens, 24, Prilly, Switzerland
- Phone: +41 21 552 05 90
- Email: socialmedia@pix4d.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/Pix4D
- Instagram: instagram.com/pix4d_official
- Twitter: twitter.com/pix4d
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/pix4d
16. Hexagon
Hexagon is a global technology company specializing in solutions that capture, process, and visualize physical data. Their technology portfolio covers industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and public safety, helping organizations transform physical reality into actionable digital insights. Hexagon’s solutions range from reality capture through sensors and software, to reality immersion, where data is analyzed and shared to enable better decision-making. The company’s tools are used to improve efficiency, enhance automation, and provide valuable insights across multiple sectors.
One of their key products is ERDAS IMAGINE, a comprehensive remote sensing software package that integrates tools for geospatial data analysis, photogrammetry, and LiDAR processing. ERDAS IMAGINE is widely used by geographic imaging professionals to process vast amounts of geospatial data, making it a versatile tool for industries that rely on accurate geospatial analysis. Hexagon continues to innovate with products that allow companies to capture and analyze geospatial information at various scales.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in reality capture, immersion, and activation technologies
- Offers geospatial data analysis tools such as ERDAS IMAGINE
- Supports a variety of industries including construction, manufacturing, and agriculture
- Provides solutions for digital twin creation and sustainability initiatives
Services:
- Reality Capture and Digitalization
- Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis
- Photogrammetry and LiDAR Processing
- Automation and Data Management Solutions
- Industry-Specific Digital Twin Development
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: hexagon.com
- Email: info@hexagon.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/HexagonAB
- Instagram: instagram.com/hexagon_ab
- Twitter: twitter.com/HexagonAB
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/hexago
17. SuperMap
SuperMap is a global provider of Geographic Information System (GIS) software solutions. Founded in 1997, the company offers a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of various industries, such as smart cities, natural resource management, and public safety. SuperMap’s solutions include cloud GIS servers, edge GIS servers, and terminal GIS platforms for desktop, web, and mobile applications. The company is known for integrating advanced technologies like big data GIS, 3D GIS, and AI-driven GIS capabilities into its offerings, allowing users to visualize, analyze, and manage spatial data effectively.
SuperMap also provides AI GIS, which integrates artificial intelligence with GIS for enhanced spatial data analysis, image interpretation, and object detection. Their products are widely used in sectors like transportation, land management, and water conservancy, supporting the digital transformation of industries through scalable, flexible GIS solutions. SuperMap continues to innovate with tools that help organizations improve decision-making and optimize operations using geospatial data.
Key Highlights:
- Provides GIS software for cloud, edge, and terminal platforms
- Integrates advanced technologies like big data, 3D GIS, and AI
- Serves industries such as smart cities, public safety, and natural resource management
- Supports AI-driven spatial analysis and machine learning tools
Services:
- Cloud and Edge GIS Solutions
- 3D GIS Mapping and Analysis
- AI GIS for Image Interpretation and Object Detection
- Spatial Data Management and Visualization
- Industry-Specific GIS Applications
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: supermap.com
- Address: Building 107, No. A10, Jiuxianqiao North Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, PR China, 100015
- Phone: +86-10-5989 6503
- Email: biz@supermap.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/SuperMap
- Instagram: instagram.com/supermap_gis
- Twitter: twitter.com/SuperMap__GIS
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/supermap
18. Mappt
Mappt is a mobile mapping software developed by Soar.Earth, designed for users requiring offline geospatial data collection and analysis. The software is available on Android devices and provides a range of features for capturing, viewing, and editing geospatial data in the field. Mappt is used in various industries such as agriculture, mining, defense, and environmental management, offering tools like GPS tracking, geofencing, and geotagged photos. One of its key advantages is its ability to function fully offline, allowing users to collect and manage data in remote locations without relying on internet connectivity.
Mappt’s versatility is evident in its compatibility with major GIS applications and its support for a range of industry-specific use cases. Its simple and user-friendly interface makes it accessible to non-technical users, enabling them to capture and analyze spatial data with ease. The software is widely used in industries where data collection in the field is essential, and its offline capability and mobile nature make it a practical choice for users working in remote or rugged environments.
Key Highlights:
- Fully functional offline mobile GIS software
- Compatible with major GIS applications and online data services
- Provides features such as geotagged photos, GPS tracking, and geofencing
- Available in 11 languages, including English, Spanish, and Chinese
- Used across industries like agriculture, defense, mining, and local government
Services:
- Offline Geospatial Data Collection
- Mobile Mapping Software for Android
- GIS Data Import and Export
- Industry-Specific GIS Solutions
- GPS Tracking and Geofencing Tools
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: mappt.com.au
19. GRASS GIS
GRASS GIS (Geographic Resources Analysis Support System) is a free and open-source software suite designed for geospatial data management and analysis, image processing, and spatial modeling. Initially developed in 1982 by the U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratories, GRASS GIS has since evolved into a powerful computational tool used for raster, vector, and geospatial processing. The software is equipped with capabilities for terrain modeling, hydrological analysis, and ecosystem simulations, making it suitable for a wide range of geospatial tasks. With a Python API and a temporal framework, it allows for advanced time series analysis and is optimized for handling large-scale datasets across various hardware configurations.
As part of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo), GRASS GIS is maintained by a global community of developers and users. The software is supported across multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows, and Mac, and can be used in diverse industries such as environmental management, urban planning, and research. GRASS GIS provides a flexible, scalable platform for professionals seeking open-source solutions for complex geospatial challenges.
Key Highlights:
- Open-source GIS software for geospatial processing and analysis
- Supports raster, vector, and temporal data management
- Optimized for large-scale analysis with Python API and multi-platform support
- Active global development community and part of OSGeo
Services:
- Raster and Vector Data Processing
- Terrain and Hydrology Modeling
- Geospatial Data Management
- Time Series Analysis
- Remote Sensing and Image Processing
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: grass.osgeo.org
- Address: 14525 SW Millikan #42523, Beaverton, Oregon, United States
- Email: grass-web@lists.osgeo.org
- Facebook: facebook.com/groups/GRASS
- Twitter: twitter.com/grassgis
20. Planet Labs PBC
Planet Labs PBC offers a range of satellite-based geospatial solutions designed to provide accurate, high-frequency imagery for various industries. Their flagship product, Planet Basemaps, delivers comprehensive, analysis-ready mosaics built from the most recent satellite imagery, helping businesses, researchers, and governments make data-driven decisions. These basemaps are customizable, allowing users to define areas of interest, select imagery types, and choose the frequency of updates, making them versatile for monitoring land use, environmental changes, and infrastructure developments. Planet’s satellite fleet, the largest commercial fleet in the world, collects over 1.5 million scenes daily, ensuring global coverage and frequent updates.
Planet Basemaps are optimized for seamless integration with GIS systems, including ArcGIS and QGIS, making it easier for users to incorporate high-resolution satellite data into their workflows. Whether for mapping, monitoring, or analysis, Planet’s basemap products enable users to derive actionable insights from their data while offering flexible delivery options, such as web streaming and downloads.
Key Highlights:
- Daily satellite imagery collection with over 1.5 million scenes
- Customizable basemap solutions, including visual and surface reflectance options
- High-resolution, cloud-free, and seasonally color-balanced basemaps
- Seamless integration with GIS platforms like ArcGIS and QGIS
Services:
- Satellite-based visual and surface reflectance basemaps
- Global and regional satellite imagery
- Data integration with GIS platforms
- Remote sensing and environmental monitoring
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: planet.com
- Address: 645 Harrison Street, 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94107
- Facebook: facebook.com/PlanetLabs
- Instagram: instagram.com/planetlabs
- Twitter: twitter.com/planet
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/planet-labs
21. HEAVY.AI
HEAVY.AI provides a GPU-accelerated analytics platform designed for handling massive datasets, delivering real-time insights across geospatial and time-series data. The platform enables organizations to query billions of records and generate interactive visualizations with zero latency. HEAVY.AI integrates advanced geospatial SQL capabilities, allowing users to conduct high-speed spatial analysis and cross-filtering across large datasets. This makes the platform an essential tool for industries requiring deep, high-performance data analysis, such as oil and gas, defense, and urban planning.
The HEAVY.AI suite includes tools like HeavyImmerse and HeavyIQ, which enable users to perform conversational analytics, visualize spatial data interactively, and leverage built-in machine learning models for predictive analytics. With its ability to handle large-scale data and deliver fast, actionable insights, HEAVY.AI helps users optimize workflows, improve decision-making processes, and collaborate efficiently by sharing real-time geospatial insights across teams.
Key Highlights:
- GPU-accelerated platform for fast, large-scale data queries and visualization
- Seamless integration of geospatial data types (POINT, LINESTRING, POLYGON) for spatial analysis
- Cross-filtering and real-time visualization of billions of data points
- Built-in support for AI and machine learning for predictive analysis
Services:
- Geospatial data analysis
- Time-series data analysis
- Data visualization tools (HeavyImmerse)
- Conversational analytics (HeavyIQ)
- Predictive analytics with GPU-accelerated ML models
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: heavy.ai
- Address: 95 Third Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, California 94103
- Email: Sales@heavy.ai PR@heavy.ai Partners@heavy.ai
- Facebook: facebook.com/heavyai
- Twitter: twitter.com/heavy_ai
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/heavy-ai
22. CARTO
CARTO is a cloud-native GIS software platform that empowers organizations to perform spatial analysis and build map-centric applications. Founded in 2012, CARTO simplifies the use of geospatial technology by providing a user-friendly interface that requires no specialized GIS expertise. The platform is designed for modern web developers, data analysts, and data scientists who need a flexible backend and an intuitive UX to extract actionable insights from spatial data. With seamless integration into existing systems, CARTO allows users to connect, visualize, and analyze spatial data to optimize business decisions and operations.
CARTO offers a suite of APIs and SDKs that enable easy connectivity to local files, cloud storage, and Business Intelligence tools, providing users with the flexibility to embed maps and spatial analysis in other platforms. The company focuses on making spatial data science more accessible, helping organizations across industries, including agriculture, transportation, and real estate, leverage geospatial insights for better decision-making and predictive analytics.
Key Highlights:
- Cloud-native GIS software for modern developers and analysts
- No GIS expertise required, with a simple and intuitive user interface
- Seamless connectivity to local files, cloud storage, and other platforms
- Transparent and predictable pricing with no hidden fees
Services:
- Spatial analysis
- Data visualization
- Application development
- Data enrichment
- Geospatial APIs and SDKs
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: carto.com
- Phone: +1 917-463-3232
- Email: support@carto.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/CartoDB
- Twitter: witter.com/CARTO
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/carto
23. Atlas
Atlas is a browser-based GIS platform that enables teams to create maps and perform geospatial analysis collaboratively in real time. It allows users to upload data, conduct spatial analysis, and visualize geospatial information, all without requiring prior expertise in GIS. By offering an intuitive interface and seamless collaboration tools, Atlas simplifies the map-making process, making it accessible for anyone involved in urban planning, environmental assessments, or emergency response operations.
Designed with collaboration in mind, Atlas supports over 30 file formats, including .geoJSON, .KML, and .shp, ensuring compatibility with various data sources. Users can customize maps with visual styling, perform advanced analyses such as proximity and buffer searches, and integrate data into dynamic dashboards. With real-time updates and synchronized changes, Atlas ensures that team members stay aligned throughout the project.
Key Highlights:
- Real-time collaboration on geospatial data and maps
- No installations required, fully browser-based GIS
- Supports multiple file formats, including .geoJSON and .KML
- Advanced spatial analysis tools for proximity, buffer, and overlay analyses
- Dynamic dashboards with real-time data updates
Services:
- GIS data visualization
- Spatial analysis
- Collaborative map-making
- Dynamic dashboards
- Data integration and file uploads
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: atlas.co
- Email: help@atlas.co
24. SAGA GIS
SAGA GIS (System for Automated Geoscientific Analyses) is an open-source software platform designed to support geospatial data processing and geoscientific methods. Developed with a modular architecture, SAGA provides users with a comprehensive set of tools for managing and analyzing raster, vector, and geospatial data. The platform is aimed at geoscientists, offering a user-friendly interface alongside a powerful Application Programming Interface (API) that enables the implementation of various geoscientific workflows. SAGA is compatible with both MS Windows and Linux, thanks to its cross-platform design.
The software allows users to visualize and manipulate spatial data through its Graphical User Interface (GUI) and command-line interpreter. SAGA supports a wide range of geospatial methods, including terrain analysis, hydrology, and image classification. With an extensive collection of modules for data processing, statistical analysis, and geospatial modeling, SAGA serves as a valuable tool for both scientific research and practical applications in fields like environmental science, geography, and urban planning.
Key Highlights:
- Cross-platform compatibility (MS Windows and Linux)
- Modular system architecture with API for scientific modules
- Extensive tools for raster, vector, and geospatial data analysis
- Supports both GUI and command-line interface for flexibility
- Comprehensive visualization options, including 3D views and scatter plots
Services:
- Geospatial data processing and analysis
- Terrain and hydrological modeling
- Image classification and geostatistics
- Raster and vector data manipulation
- Command-line automation and scripting capabilities
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: saga-gis.sourceforge.io
25. MapWindow GIS Open Source Project
MapWindow GIS is an open-source project that provides a suite of geospatial tools, including desktop GIS software, an ActiveX control for mapping, and a C# GIS programmer library called DotSpatial. The project began in 1998 and has grown to include several key components: MapWindow4, MapWindow5, MapWinGIS, HydroDesktop, and DotSpatial. These tools are designed to support geospatial data viewing, analysis, and mapping, catering to both end-users and developers. MapWindow5, the most recent version, offers new features such as geo-database support and a toolbox for geospatial tasks, all of which are extendable through plugins.
MapWindow GIS emphasizes flexibility and user-friendliness, allowing users to customize and extend its capabilities for a wide range of applications. With a modular architecture and the use of open-source technologies, MapWindow allows users to create plugins and tools for specific tasks, making it a versatile tool for geospatial professionals working on Windows-based platforms.
Key Highlights:
- Open-source GIS with modular architecture
- Extensible through plugins and tools for custom tasks
- Cross-platform mapping engine available as an ActiveX control
- Supports geo-databases, WMS, and multi-threading tools
- Designed for both end-users and developers
Services:
- Geospatial data analysis and visualization
- Desktop GIS software for Windows
- GIS programmer tools and libraries for C# and .NET
- Hydrologic data software and tools
- Plugin development and customization support
Contact and Social Media Information:
- Website: mapwindow.org
- Email: info@mapwindow.org
- Twitter:twitter.com/mapwindow_nl
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/groups/122945
Conclusion
When it comes to finding alternatives to QGIS, there are plenty of options out there that can cater to your specific needs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned GIS professional. Tools like MapWindow GIS, GRASS GIS, and CARTO each bring their own strengths to the table. If you’re looking for powerful geospatial analysis, ease of use, or specialized features like hydrological data management, these platforms can provide solid alternatives to QGIS. Plus, many of them are open source, giving you the flexibility to customize and extend them to suit your projects.
Ultimately, the best alternative depends on what you’re trying to achieve. Whether you need a fully-featured desktop GIS, a web-based collaborative tool, or a developer-friendly solution, exploring these options will help you find the right fit for your workflow. So, take some time to try them out, and see which one works best for you!
