To begin with, you can use the data you already have, in the form it is already in—spreadsheets such as Excel, databases such as Access, popular CAD packages, and other GIS applications, to name just a few. If your data is on a remote database, you can access it directly from MapInfo Pro. If you have data that is not already online, you can create database files right inside the product, or use data supplied by Precisely, such as census data.
Similarly, you can use any of thousands of maps available from Precisely, everything from street and highway maps to world maps. You can also create your own maps, either in MapInfo Pro or with a drawing package. You can diagram anything - floor plans, flow charts, even brain anatomy - can be treated as a map and entered into the product.
After you have organized your data visually, you will save the results to files, or send them to any of the dozens of printers and plotters MapInfo Pro recognizes.
If you have your data on hand and you can read a map, you are just about ready to begin. Soon, we will show you an example of how easy it is to put MapInfo Pro's power to work for you.
But first, install MapInfo Pro following the instructions in the MapInfo Pro Install Guide. If you are new to the product, or new to computer mapping, we suggest you refer to this guide for an overview of basic mapping terms and concepts. Use the web-enabled tutorial to learn about its features, and become accustomed to the more common tasks and functions.
For more product and service information, you can connect directly from MapInfo Pro to our forum (on the PRO tab, click Products, and visit the website), or visit us at http://www.precisely.com/product/precisely-mapinfo/mapinfo-pro.