ArcGIS StoryMaps vs QGIS

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.

QGIS is free, open-source software for creating, editing, analyzing, visualizing, and publishing geospatial information. Its layout designer produces print maps, while reporting tools can assemble atlases and reports containing maps and tabular material. It includes hundreds of analysis tools and supports visual workflows that can be reproduced. QGIS works with many data sources and formats and can use or create web services based on industry standards. More than 2,000 community-developed plugins add capabilities. QGIS Server publishes projects and layers through OGC-compatible WMS, WMTS, WFS, and WCS services. The download page offers a Long Term Release for users who prefer stability over the latest features. The project lists third-party mobile field apps, including QField, Mergin Maps, and IntraMaps Roam; these are separate from QGIS mobile apps. QGIS is licensed under GNU GPL version 2 or later and has community support through forums, GIS StackExchange, chat channels, and local user groups. The free plan costs nothing.