What does API stand for?

Application Programming Interface. An API is a set of programming instruction and standards for accessing Web-based data and software applications. With access to an API, developers can design products and services powered (at least in part) by another company's data or software application.

How does the Maponics Spatial API work?

Using already-established Web technologies, your development team can quickly set your system up to make data requests to the Maponics Spatial API and have that data returned to your system. Your system can then process this data for use, be it boundary areas for inclusion on a interactive map, or pure data for targeted references or lookups.

Can you give an example of how it might be used?

We have created a sample Google Maps mashup. Our developers have written code so that when you enter your postal address and submit it, the Maponics Spatial API is sent a query asking for the name and boundary area of the neighborhood covering your address. That data is then returned to the Google Maps mashup and displayed.

Which is better, full dataset file delivery or data access via API?

Neither, they are just different. The best choice for you depends on the resources you have available. Even major corporations with experienced Web programmers in-house sometimes don't have the staff or infrastructure in place to support ongoing map database management and hosting. The API is a way for them to access geospatial data without having to expand their internal capabilities.

What file formats can I get Maponics geospatial data in, if I choose not to use the API?

We offer data in many file formats, for easy integration. The specific options vary by data type, but here are some common ones:

• Shapefile - ESRI
• MapInfo - TAB
• Database Loadable - KML
• Database Loadable - WKT
• Database Loadable - MySQL
• Database Loadable - PostGIS

What data is available?

Much of the data accessible via our API is listed on our data info page. Some popular datasets include: neighborhood data, ZIP Code data and carrier route data.

What kinds of questions can data from the Maponics Spatial API help answer?

• Show the neighborhood, ZIP Code or carrier route boundary (ready to map latitude and longitude points) surrounding a given address or location point
• List the neighborhoods, ZIP Codes or carrier routes closest to a location point
• Supply the neighborhood, ZIP Code or carrier route in which a latitude and longitude point or typed address falls
• List all neighborhoods, ZIP Codes or carrier routes within a city, state or radius
• Many more, including custom data retrievals related to neighborhoods, ZIP Codes, and carrier routes

How can I learn more or sign up?

Email api@maponics.com or call 800.762.5158 and ask for Mark Friend.