AutoCAD Map® 3D 2008 software, built on the AutoCAD® 2008 platform, connects CAD and GIS by providing the most powerful creation and editing tools for GIS professionals as well as the geospatial features that mapping and CAD technicians and civil engineers require.

As the leading engineering GIS platform for creating and managing spatial data, AutoCAD Map 3D software bridges computer-aided design (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) by providing direct access to data, regardless of how it is stored, and by enabling the use of AutoCAD® tools for maintaining a broad variety of geospatial information. Using open source FDO Data Access Technology, Map 3D natively accesses spatial data stored in relational databases, files, and web-based services- providing easy management of large geospatial data sets, while streamlining entire workflows. With smooth integration of Autodesk MapGuide® technology, AutoCAD Map 3D is the quickest way to publish data to the web or intranet.

Serving as the desktop-based core of the Autodesk Geospatial platform, AutoCAD Map 3D enables users to create and edit spatial data. It bridges the gap between CAD and GIS departments and systems because it's familiar to engineering and CAD users, yet provides functionality needed by planning and GIS professionals. Along with all the powerful tools of AutoCAD software, Map 3D has the geospatial functionality important to both GIS and engineering staff, such as data cleanup functions, coordinate systems, GIS analysis (thematic mapping and buffers, for example), and database functions.

AutoCAD Map 3D provides