Global Mapper
Global Mapper is an all-in-one GIS software providing a comprehensive suite of spatial data processing tools, advanced terrain analysis, and 3D visualization capabilities for both novice and experienced professionals.
Forest Metrix
Forest Metrix is a comprehensive forest inventory and ecological data collection software providing professional foresters with high-speed field tallying and instant reporting capabilities on mobile devices.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Global Mapper | Forest Metrix |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bluemarblegeo.com | forestmetrix.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1993 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Hallowell, USA | Montpelier, USA |
Overview
Global Mapper
Global Mapper is a versatile Geographic Information System (GIS) tool that gives you the power to handle almost any spatial data challenge. Whether you are calculating cut-and-fill volumes, generating contours from terrain data, or performing complex LiDAR processing, you can manage your entire workflow within a single interface. It removes the need for multiple niche tools by supporting over 300 different spatial data formats right out of the box.
You can easily transition from 2D map viewing to immersive 3D fly-throughs to better understand your landscape. The software is designed for professionals in surveying, engineering, and environmental management who need technical precision without a steep learning curve. It provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive enterprise GIS suites while maintaining high-level analytical capabilities for your daily mapping projects.
Forest Metrix
Forest Metrix is a specialized field data collection solution designed to streamline how you gather and analyze forest inventory data. Instead of juggling paper tallies and manual spreadsheets, you use an intuitive mobile interface to record tree species, diameters, and heights directly in the woods. The system calculates volumes, basal areas, and stocking levels in real-time, allowing you to review cruise results before you even leave the plot.
You can customize the software to match your specific cruising protocols, whether you are managing timber sales, conducting ecological assessments, or performing urban tree inventories. It eliminates the need for office-side data entry by syncing your field measurements directly into professional reports and GIS-ready formats. This transition from field to finished report helps you save hours of administrative work while ensuring higher data accuracy for your clients or organization.
Overview
Global Mapper Features
- Extensive Format Support Access and combine data from over 300 different file formats including SHP, DXF, KML, and various LiDAR types.
- Terrain Analysis Generate contours, perform watershed mapping, and calculate line-of-sight or viewshed analysis to understand your physical landscape.
- LiDAR Processing Classify point clouds automatically and create high-resolution digital terrain models from your raw drone or aerial scans.
- 3D Visualization View your data in a dedicated 3D window to create realistic fly-through videos and evaluate elevation changes.
- Image Rectification Turn any paper map or unreferenced image into a geographically accurate layer by assigning real-world coordinates.
- Volume Calculation Measure terrain volume changes and calculate stockpiles accurately using simple polygon tools on your elevation layers.
Forest Metrix Features
- Real-Time Calculations. View instant volume and basal area results on your mobile device while you are still standing at the plot.
- Customizable Cruise Templates. Configure your own data fields and species lists to match your specific regional requirements or client needs.
- Integrated Mapping. Navigate to plots using built-in GPS and view your inventory data overlaid on high-resolution aerial imagery.
- Automated Reporting. Generate comprehensive timber sale reports and ecological summaries with a single click once your field work is done.
- Offline Functionality. Collect all your inventory data in remote locations without needing a cellular connection or active internet access.
- Ecological Assessment Tools. Track non-timber data like invasive species, wildlife habitat features, and carbon sequestration metrics alongside your timber cruise.
Pricing Comparison
Global Mapper Pricing
- Support for 300+ formats
- Advanced 2D/3D viewing
- Terrain analysis tools
- Digitizer & feature editing
- Scripting and automation
- Online data access
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- LiDAR classification tools
- Pixels-to-Points photogrammetry
- Automatic feature extraction
- Terrain painting tools
- Advanced point cloud filtering
Forest Metrix Pricing
Pros & Cons
Global Mapper
Pros
- Unmatched variety of supported spatial data formats
- Fast processing speeds for large elevation datasets
- Lower price point than major enterprise competitors
- Intuitive interface that is easy to learn
- Excellent 3D rendering and visualization capabilities
Cons
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern apps
- Advanced LiDAR features require a Pro upgrade
- Limited advanced cartographic styling for final maps
Forest Metrix
Pros
- Significantly reduces time spent on office data entry
- Highly flexible configuration for different forest types
- Excellent technical support from knowledgeable forestry professionals
- Works reliably on standard iOS mobile devices
- Instant feedback on cruise statistics while in the field
Cons
- Initial setup requires time to customize templates
- Public pricing is not available without a quote
- Interface has a slight learning curve for new users