Web mapping is the process of using maps delivered by
geographical information systems (GIS). Since a web
map on the
World Wide Web is both served and consumed, web mapping is more than just web
cartography, it is both a service activity and consumer activity. Web
GIS emphasizes
geodata processing aspects more involved with design aspects such as data acquisition and server software architecture such as data storage and algorithms, than it does the end-user reports themselves. The terms
web GIS and
web mapping remain somewhat synonymous. Web GIS uses web maps, and end users who are
web mapping are gaining analytical capabilities. The term
location-based services refers to
web mapping consumer goods and services. Web mapping usually involves a web browser or other user agent capable of client-server interactions.