I have been using the industry standard ARCView for some research and analysis projects. For those not familiar with ARCView and GIS technology, think GPS on steroids.

ARCView is a high cost computer application used by federal, state and local governments to document the geography of the nation. Now, a subset of the full application is available for your smartphone or iPad.

The ArcGIS App for Smartphones and Tablets lets you navigate maps, collect and report data, and perform GIS analysis. It is a part of the ArcGIS system and the app is free.

Once installed, the app lets you select the map base you desire. You can select from US Topographic, satellite picture, or the default which is detailed street maps.

While I am still exploring the many opportunities available, I find a significant number that make this a must have app for your smartphone or tablet. Coupled with a Bluetooth capable GPS or other data logger, you can create your own maps. And, you can draw from the many free offerings from ESRI to look at the would in different ways.

For more information and download your copy of the app, click on the link below:

http://www.esri.com/software/arcgis/smartphones/index.html