From Concept to Implementation: Web-Based Cartographic Visualisation with CartoService

This paper deals with the implementation and prototypical application of a concept of a web-based on-demand service for the modelling and visualisation of quality maps (CartoService, CS). Drawing on state-of-the-art web technology and software architecture CS can be considered a cartographic customisation of the standard visualisation system. The CS architecture is generic and completely based on the use and integration of web-services, more precisely, on a set of loosely coupled, self-contained methods and information units (services). Map modelling and visualisation components are sequentially ordered in a process chain which facilitates an automated production workflow. Interaction between web-service players (communicators) is based on a three-tier architecture. Tasks assigned to CS essential services are discussed and exemplified for one common application scenario: CS as map configurator. Presently, full implementation of CS is under way. As a fully operational product, CS will significantly contribute to the enhancement of web-based map visualisation in comparison to existing standards-based map dissemination.