I'm interested in comments about desktop GIS software. I'm talking about the basic engine, not the application overlays.

The standard seems to be ArcView which is the scaled down, desktop version of the server based ArcInfo. ArcInfo seems to be the platform of choice for public sector use and available data is very often in this format. Applications like CityGreen are built for it.

I took a 2 day ArcInfo-View course a while back and was just scratching the surface... the learning curve is pretty steep.

Are there alternatives? Is MapInfo any less capable?

Reply to post by Scott Cullen, on January 11, 2000 at 06:09:15:

scott, i cant comment on the gis software you mention as i have had no experience of it. i have used map info although not for tree related purposes. as with arc view the learning curve for map info is very steep and my knowledge of the full capabilities of the software is incomplete. from my limited knowledge there seems to be enough scope to tailor map info to suit your purposes provided you have sufficient training in its use.
i have just been contracted to prepare a report regarding maintenance of street trees by local councils. i am just beginning to investigate the relevent software available to plan and/or manage tree maintenance schedules. if any one knows of some of these software application s could you please let me know. thanks.
mark lutherborrow

Reply to post by mark lutherborrow, on January 11, 2000 at 06:09:15:

Hi, there mark.

I have for some time been working on a Environmental management system whicch will have an integrated mapping system.
Regular readers of this page probably think I`m a bit of a loony by now, I answer questions regarding Tree/Environmental Software, but alas my own system is still some four to six weeks away.
The web site I have been promising for some time should be up and running within a week, with as much relevant info as I can fit on to it. The system works as both a full surveying tool and also a fully automated work flow/scheduler.

Watch this space over the next week or so for the URL to the new site

Thanks

Eirion