ArcGIS StoryMaps vs Global Mapper

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based tool for sharing maps, apps, and multimedia as narrative content. Authors can create stories, slide-based briefings, mobile-first frames, and collections with reusable themes. The builder supports configured 2D web maps and 3D web scenes, as well as ArcGIS apps created by organization members. Stories can draw on existing ArcGIS maps and scenes, Esri demographic and lifestyle data, and curated ArcGIS Living Atlas maps. Published items can be shared with an organization, selected groups, or everyone; organization members can co-author through groups. Changes save automatically, and authors can republish edits when ready. Creator, Professional, and Professional Plus user types provide full storytelling capabilities; Viewer, Contributor, and Mobile Worker can view shared content but cannot create it. Public accounts are free, with usage limits and some advanced features unavailable. A free plan and a 21-day trial are listed. ArcGIS StoryMaps is also included with ArcGIS Enterprise starting at version 10.8.1, including deployment in disconnected environments.

Global Mapper is a desktop GIS application for geospatial data processing, spatial analysis, geodetic workflows, and preparing maps for deployment. It supports more than 300 vector, raster, elevation, and point cloud formats without add-ons or additional licenses. The Essentials plan covers data viewing and conversion, coordinate transformation and reprojection, and streamed online data sources. Advanced adds terrain and vector analysis, scripting, geodetic analysis, and cartographic production. Professional adds lidar and point cloud processing, drone photogrammetry, complex imagery and raster analysis, automated breakline extraction, and AI/ML image classification. Lidar tools include feature classification, noise removal, point cloud thinning, and vector feature extraction. GeoCalc provides more than 12,000 geodetic definitions and supports modernized NSRS and CSRS. AI-assisted extraction can identify roads, buildings, vegetation, power lines, and other features. It exchanges data with ArcGIS formats, exports to Avenza Maps for offline field use, and supports a workflow with MAPublisher and Adobe Illustrator. Plans start at $599/user/yr; a 14-day trial is listed.