ArcGIS StoryMaps vs Understand

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.

Understand turns static charts and complex dashboards into data stories for sharing insights and supporting decisions. Each story is built from cards that appear as viewers scroll through it, a format the product calls scrollytelling. Users can import data from files, Google, SQL databases, OLAP cubes, or APIs. Understand AI can analyze and summarize stories and identify anomalies. Stories can be shared publicly or embedded; Growth also supports email and Slack notifications. The service describes scheduled story updates and mobile-friendly viewing. A white-label option lets users embed stories in another product with custom branding and a custom domain. Enterprise-ready options include private cloud or single-tenant deployment, SSO, and access control. The free Starter plan includes one editor, unlimited stories, CSV upload and manual entry, public sharing, and scrollytelling. Growth costs $25.00 per editor per month with annual billing. A 14-day trial is listed, and the terms limit website use to individuals aged 13 or older.