The Big Questions…Answered (partially)

1) What’s the deal with ArcGIS Explorer?
I’m not entirely sure. What I’ve gathered so far is this: Explorer is a desktop application that can be customized with your own data, tools, and tasks. To extend it, .NET must be used; Java is not supported. Explorer can consume services from ArcGIS Server, ArcIMS, GeoRSS, etc. It’s a powerful tool, obviously, but some serious discussion would have to happen around whether it’s something that would be useful for us right now.

1) What’s with the Metadata Service in 9.2?
OK, this was a major relief. After questioning many ESRI staff I feel confident that ArcIMS 9.2 DOES, in fact, have a Metadata Service. Yes, that’s right! A Metadata Service exists. What this means is that we can upgrade to ArcGIS 9.2, ArcSDE 9.2, and ArcIMS 9.2 without losing metadata. What does NOT exist is a Metadata Service for ArcGIS Server 9.2, nor will it exist for Server 9.3 (maybe for 9.4?). The reason for this is that a major re-architecture of the catalog system is required to support the ISO 19115 and ISO 19119, for metadata for data and services, respectively. Also note in this OGC Interoperability Matrix that SLD and Catalog 2 support is there for 9.2.

3) Java vs .NET
All aspects of ArcGIS can be extended using either the Java or .NET framework….EXCEPT ArcGIS Explorer and ArcGIS Mobile; any customizations within these frameworks must be done in .NET

4) The IMF
Though I think we currently license the IMF through MoxiMedia, an upgrade to IMF 6.0 would transfer that to GeoCortex in Victoria. The object model for ArcGIS Server is now exposed so customizations can now take place much the same way we currently customize the IMF. More conversation with the GeoCortex people is needed.

TO BE CONTINUED…