In contrast to conventional spatial information systems, with map.apps, less is more. They are characterised by:

• Pre-configured content (spatial data, maps) – optimally compiled, clearly and unambiguously designed to precisely fit their intended purpose.
• Selective range of tools – carefully combined in line with the principle of 'less is more', with content that is closely interlinked and completely intuitive.
• Familiar operating concepts – adapted from technical and non-technical areas of everyday life, to ensure users immediately feel 'at home' with the application.
  

map.apps feature a maximum degree of user friendliness. Their extreme ease of use makes GIS more accessible to a broader audience than was ever possible before. Their typical operations follow patterns that will be immediately familiar to every user.

• map desk is just like a normal desk, it can be used for sorting or safeguarding items or as a work surface.
• map flow is just like cover flow, in which maps and spatial data are organised and displayed in a similar manner to music titles and albums.
• follow me is just like a web meeting, in which map contents can be exchanged and jointly analysed.
  
  
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map.apps merge standard Esri technologies with established standards of the web world. From REST/JSON to JavaScript to current HTML5 extensions, they are compatible with everything that keeps the web world moving. As a modular system for creating geo-apps for everyone, they invoke a new era of web-based geo-applications. Moreover, they are multi-platform-capable and support collaborative working.

Particularly significant with map.apps is that they are not used for programming but for composing solutions. Individual users turn the functional modules into whatever it is they require. Just like with a construction kit, modules can be subjected to multiple use, swapped around or extended, inspired by the user's own technical interests and special abilities. In this way, map.apps create a new form of collaborative working and developing that integrates our partners and customers in the worlds of administration, private business, research and teaching – while at the same time giving rise to a steadily growing map.apps community.

The iPhone and iPad boom has triggered a revolution. The incredibly rapid spread of apps and their wide acceptance among enthusiastic users have had a decisive effect on the development of a worldwide information culture. With map.apps, con terra is making GIS an integral part of this information culture – a genuine added value for all interested users, anywhere and anytime.

Intuitive operation and integrated Web-2.0 technologies enable GIS to tap into completely new user groups. Non-specialists are now discovering the possibilities of GIS. Collaborative scenarios and joint software developments (community-driven development) are gaining in importance, while learning and use times are becoming shorter. Acceptance is increasing along a broad front.

As small as map.apps may be, their impact is all the more large on the way that we all – experts and non-experts alike – use spatial information technology. It might not be a revolution, but it is certainly an important step towards a new user experience.

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