MapServe

Customer Stories

Rural Architect Switches to MapServe® for Simpler Mapping on Mac and Better Value

The Rural Architect is a small, independent practice established after years of experience working in larger architectural firms. When the director launched the business and began working on a Mac, technical limitations and pricing issues with Promap prompted a search for a better alternative—leading to a smooth switch to MapServe®.

Architect

Before

Long-time Promap user facing compatibility issues on Mac (no Flash support)
Required to pay in advance just to view maps, creating unnecessary friction
Clunky user experience and unexpected costs when using Promap’s tools
Maps often had complicated line weights and less intuitive CAD layers

After

Seamless use of MapServe® on Mac with no technical issues
Easy, up-front map purchase with clear pricing using the polygon selection tool
Used OS MasterMap® in DXF format for 1:500 site plans and 1:1250 location plans
Clean, easy-to-edit CAD layers and consistent line weights saved time in drawing production
Access to colour OS MasterMap® added clarity to plans and improved client understanding
Payment handled instantly—no monthly invoicing or bank transfers required

Process

Found MapServe® via Google after facing issues with Promap
Selected the map area using the polygon tool to reduce costs and tailor downloads
Downloaded OS MasterMap® directly in DXF format
Imported files into CAD software, easily adjusting line weights and drawing boundaries
Used colour MasterMap® for more visually engaging and clear site plans

Conclusion

Switching to MapServe® gave this rural architect a better user experience, particularly on Mac, with no compromise on mapping quality. The combination of transparent pricing, clean CAD layers, and new coloured OS MasterMap® made site plans easier to produce and understand—saving both time and money in the planning process. For architects looking for a reliable, Mac-friendly alternative to Promap, MapServe® delivers.

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