NC OneMap relies on Web Map Services (WMS) to bring data together from multiple hosts. NC OneMap partners establish a WMS from their servers. This Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) standard allows data to be created and stored in numerous proprietary software configurations (ESRI, MapInfo, Intergraph, etc), but is viewable by all.

Web Map Services are a two-way exchange: both to and from NC OneMap. Partners can choose to stream data from NC OneMap into a desktop application in their workplace. A benefit for GIS professionals is that raster and vector data from another web service can be loaded into your desktop software (provided it can read WMS) and used as a static backdrop graphic. The advantage to using a WMS map service from NC OneMap is that the data is served “live” and should be the most current data available.

Use the NC OneMap web service catalog to copy/paste map service URLs into your own applications (ArcMap, etc.). This feature allows you to access and use shared data sets in your applications without a copy physically residing on your computer.