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Data Catalogue: Introduction to digital mapping data

What types of digital GIS map data do I need?

For most mapping projects, the first requirement is a background map – the roads, rivers, railways etc. Sometimes the background map is also key to the analysis itself using attributes such as speed, population or travel restrictions. There are many new, improved data sets with speeds for calculating journey times.

OS Streetview raster mapping showing buildings, schools, colleges etc.
CodePoint unit postcode data locations over Navteq mapping

The most common way to add your own data to the map, e.g. coloured symbols showing locations of outlets, customers, patients, depots, etc., is by using geocoding. Geocoding is the process of adding geography to your postcodes to place them on the map. Unit postcode data files provide the grid coordinates.

TVPlan boundaries, click for media boundary products information with pricing
Use boundaries to create a map showing data grouped by your chosen level of geography, e.g. postcode sector, ward or perhaps TV region. This enables you to analyse trends, see anomalies and identify opportunities. You can also use boundary files to create territories for franchises, depots and health workers for instance.
To understand the trends in your own data, you often need to compare results with underlying data. For example, the percentage market penetration (your customers divided by the number of potential customers) is often more helpful than a straight customer count.

Census at output area level, click for UK Census products information with pricing

Licensing and Pricing

Copyright
All data listed in the data catalogue is covered by a licensing agreement, which varies from one product to another, and may also depend on how you plan to use the data. Acceptance of the terms may be deemed to have occurred when you open a shrink-wrapped package or load the software/data. Alternatively you may be required to sign an agreement in advance.

Base prices listed in the catalogue are for a single-user desktop application (unless otherwise stated) and there is a minimum order fee of £250.

Many data licences are now annual. In some instances such as Andes and NAVTEQ there is an option of a perpetual licence with no obligation to make further payments. Multi-user pricing details are given where they apply. Internet and tracking applications may involve special licensing and pricing terms. Please contact MapMechanics for more information.

Roads and Streets
Road and street mapping is available in vector and raster formats. The digital data catalogue includes mapping from OS, AA, Navteq and many others to provide worldwide coverage.

UK Roads & Streets >>>

Europe & World Data >>>


Unit postcodes & geocoding

In the UK, unit postcodes provide the best geocoding option. In other countries zipcodes, administrative geography or street gazetteers are sometimes more effective.

UK Postcodes & Geocoders >>>

Europe & World Data >>>


Boundaries
Boundary files include administrative and census geography, postcode and media files.

UK Boundaries >>>

Other Europe & World Data>>>


Geodemographic Data

Geodemographic files vary in each country. But all provide population, business and lifestyle information.

UK Geodemographics >>>

Europe & World Data>>>

Gazetteers
Gazetteers provide lists of places and their geographic coordinates to navigate around and add a sense of place

UK Gazetteers >>>

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