The central iShareMaps application enables Local Authorities to introduce a mapping interface to their public facing websites enabling citizens to find out about services quickly. The solution uses pure HTML so no browser plug-in is required. Once the iShareMaps module has been installed configuration is simply a matter of choosing the maps, defining the service data and deciding on the functionality required in the display.

As well as the usual zoom mapping functionality, sites can be configured to provide a sophisticated range of search and query tools, display different themes with direct links to the main site. Themes may be used to facilitate access to different services such as education, leisure or waste management.

Using iShareMaps’ multi-lingual capabilities Cardiff County Council were the first to implement a web mapping interface in two languages, Welsh and English . For some authorities with a number of different ethnic groups iShareMaps’ multi-lingual capabilities will make the introduction of web mapping to their websites considerably easier.