How ArcGIS Works

With a comprehensive set of capabilities, multiple deployment options, and a well-architected framework as its foundation, ArcGIS fits seamlessly into enterprise tech stacks.

ArcGIS is proven technology

Esri develops ArcGIS based on insights from customers who have experienced transformational impact. Continual advancement of the technology and capabilities is influenced directly by customers’ evolving needs.

On this foundation, organizations can support extensive business and mission systems across the enterprise.

A woman in a yellow sweater uses a computer mouse and keyboard to navigate a 3D map displayed on a computer screen.

The world’s largest public and private organizations across multiple industries rely on ArcGIS as a vital business system.

ArcGIS is architected for the enterprise

ArcGIS meets all modern criteria for enterprise-ready technology. It is cloud-based, with a reliable development life cycle, support for standards and specifications, and integration with common IT systems and infrastructure.

Configurable

ArcGIS is configurable and extendable, allowing IT teams to tailor the platform to every business unit’s needs.
Interoperable

ArcGIS integrates seamlessly with business systems, compounding the benefits of systems such as EAM, CRM, ERP, and BI.
Scalable

Flexible licensing, deployment, and performance options scale to support individuals, teams, and entire organizations.
Secure

ArcGIS is secure and trustworthy, meeting and exceeding privacy and compliance standards.

ArcGIS elements

ArcGIS is a comprehensive geospatial platform on which organizations can configure an array of systems to serve diverse purposes. Access is granted via user types, supporting people across the enterprise such as analysts, data scientists, technical professionals, and executives.

How to build systems with ArcGIS

ArcGIS comes with data, apps, and tools

ArcGIS is the most complete geospatial platform available. Capabilities are complemented by ready-to-use apps, tools, and content.

Data and maps

Esri curates the world's foremost collection of geospatial information. Access thousands of current, authoritative, and ready-to-use maps, apps, and data layers.

Learn about the collection
Ready-to-use apps

A suite of apps enable ArcGIS to be used on any device, anywhere and anytime. Prebuilt solutions for specific industries, use cases, and workflows are also available to streamline work.

Explore the list of apps and solutions
Developer tools

ArcGIS includes access to APIs, SDKs, location services, and other tools to develop custom mapping and spatial analysis applications.

Learn about developer tools