Are ArcMap and ArcGIS the Same?

Amidst the vast array of geographic information system (GIS) tools and software, ArcGIS and ArcMap often get confused with one another. While they share significant overlap, they are distinct components within the broader ArcGIS suite developed by Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI).

Understanding ArcGIS

ArcGIS is a comprehensive suite of tools designed for geographic analysis, editing, and management. It encompasses a variety of applications, each serving a specific function within the broader GIS landscape. This suite includes ArcMap, ArcGlobe, ArcScene, and ArcCatalog, among others. Each application within ArcGIS is tailored to address specific aspects of GIS work.

Comprehensive Overview of ArcGIS Applications

The ArcGIS suite can be seen as similar to the Adobe Creative Suite, where each application serves a unique purpose. For example:

ArcMap: This application is the primary tool for creating and modifying 2D maps and spatial data analysis. ArcGlobe: This is akin to Google Earth, allowing for the visualization of 3D geographic data. ArcScene: This application focuses on 3D visualization and analysis, including terrain mapping. ArcCatalog: This tool serves as a data manager, allowing for the creation and management of datasets and other files.

ArcGIS, in its entirety, represents the full suite of tools, whereas ArcMap is one of its integral components, similar to how MS Word is part of the Microsoft Office Suite.

Historical Context and Naming Conventions

The terminology and naming conventions used in ESRI's GIS software have evolved over time. ESRI's first commercial GIS software, launched in 1982, was called Arc/Info, which was a combination of a geographic tool and a database management tool. The term "Arc" was used to denote the software's spatial capabilities, while "INFO" represented the database management aspect.

After significant advancements and expansions, ESRI decided to create an integrated suite in 1997 (ArcGIS 8.x) and adopted the name ArcMap as the main Windows desktop application. It was part of the overall ArcGIS solution, which included other applications like ArcView, ArcSDE, ArcReader, ArcCatalog, and ArcEditor. However, as the product suite grew and expanded, confusion arose due to the numerous names and licensing models.

In 2011, with the release of ArcGIS 10.1, ESRI made significant changes, renaming several products to bring more logical consistency. During this transition, ArcMap became part of the broader ArcGIS Desktop suite, with different licensing levels. As of now, the term 'ArcView' is deprecated, and users primarily refer to ArcMap and ArcGIS Desktop interchangeably, although the application file still retains the name arcmap.exe.

Conceptual Changes and Licensing Models

While the renaming and rebranding brought clarity, it also involved conceptual changes. For instance, ArcCatalog and ArcMap tools were merged, and new licensing models were introduced. These changes were not just cosmetic but also brought about a reevaluation of how users interact with and license ESRI's GIS software.

Conclusion and Future Trends

While ArcMap and ArcGIS are not the same, ArcMap is indeed part of the broader ArcGIS desktop suite. This relationship is crucial for understanding the complex landscape of GIS software. With ongoing advancements in technology and GIS applications, ESRI continues to adapt and evolve its suite to meet the growing demands of the industry. Understanding the differences between these tools is essential for effective GIS workflow management.