The arrival of ArcGIS brings with it a new integration concept for geographical information systems by ESRI. Composed of a hierarchic ensemble of functions making possible the creation, integration, structure and analysis of geographical data, ArcGIS brings together three products developed to meet the specific needs of a more varied GIS user base.

ArcInfo, ArcEditor and ArcView now possess a common architecture which is composed of the following modules: Arc Map (graphic interface), Arc Catalog (data management) and Arc Toolbox (Tools management).

Gathering strength from its powerful editing, analysis and modeling functions, ArcGIS gives the user the possibility of developing his or her own tools (Visual Basic, VBA, Visual C++, Delphi) based on COM technology from Microsoft.

ArcGIS 9.3 supports shapefiles et allows the user to import projects from older versions (.apr files) as well as legend themes (.avl files) for an easy transition from projects created in the past.

ESRI extensions for ArcGIS

GSF extensions for ArcGIS