ARCGIS / ARCGIS StoryMaps
ARCGIS software accessible to UW users include a web-based and desktop GIS application for exploring geographical data and map creation. The StoryMaps tool, previously known as ESRI StoryMaps, is an exhibit/storytelling platform that can leverage maps and GIS data to illustrate all sorts of content.
Pros: UW users have access to ARCGIS tools with netID login; StoryMaps tool is easy to use with templates and media modules.
Cons: Premium ARCGIS services such as storage and analysis tools use “AGOL credits.” UW assigns users 10 credits; certain activities working with very large datasets may require requesting more credits.
Links:
- UW IT info on ARCGIS: Includes information on how to download the desktop client, site license info (requires UWnetid)
- Technical support request form: Faculty associated with GIS provide unofficial support for ARCGIS tools via this online form.
Google My Maps
Mapping tool using Google Maps. Can save location tags, associated text and images, add lines and measurements.
Pros: Accessible via UW netid Google accounts; supports multiple contributors for group/collaborative projects; can import data in certain formats.
Links:
- My Maps
- Using Google My Maps: The Benefits for Digital Humanities: Blog post (2019) with instructions on using MyMaps and importing data.
StoryMaps JS
Similar tool to ARCGIS StoryMaps. Interactive mapping tool that integrates text and multimedia for map-based storytelling.
Pros: Free, open-source, web-based software. Further customizable with the use of additional tools.
Cons: Requires a Google account for full functionality, though there are some workarounds (see the UW Libraries workshop for more information).
Links:
- StoryMaps JS: Home page for the tool from Knight Lab.
- UW Libraries Tutorial: UW Libraries Open Scholarship Summer Series online workshop/tutorial for StoryMaps JS.
- A Peoples' Landscape: Racism and Resistance at UW: UW student-made example using the tool.