docSTAR and Fountains Spatial have announced the availability of docSTAR MapConnect version 2.0.

docSTAR MapConnect combines the power of the ESRI ArcGIS architecture with docSTAR’s award-winning document management software. MapConnect is designed to enhance ESRI’s GIS application by associating documents with geospatial features in any layer or a general geographic area. MapConnect enables users to instantly geo-link and access documents in real-time. The result is significant savings of time, resources and tax dollars.

“80% of documents used by State and Local government agencies are tied to a location,” says Larry Spraker, President of Fountains Spatial. “MapConnect delivers immediate access to time sensitive documents by leveraging existing GIS software and docSTAR. This can impact emergency response time as well as day to day operations.”

docSTAR MapConnect allows local government to address many different facets of their document storage and retrieval needs. Land-based documents, such as deeds, plans and permits are easily associated with parcels, while asset-based documents such as inspection records can be linked to features such as hydrants or signs for quick access. Finally, documents such as floor plans and infrastructure drawings can be linked to structures to assist with facility management, emergency response and homeland security.

“If there’s a catastrophe you need to know what’s there,” explains Jeff Frankel, Executive VP of docSTAR. “MapConnect provides government agencies with a solution to mitigate risk by allowing first responders to immediately access documents related to assets and infrastructure. The goal is to increase speed and improve safety during disaster relief.”

docSTAR and Fountains Spatial initially developed MapConnect for use by the Town of South Windsor, CT. The town needed a way to quickly make complex decisions while facing economic challenges as well as increasing legal and regulatory requirements.

“Integrating GIS and document management is critical today more than ever,” declares Scott Roberts, IT Manager for South Windsor. “Having access to our historical records quickly, and more importantly by location, dramatically improves staff efficiency and overall customer satisfaction. Today we can answer questions within minutes that in the past could have taken days.” 

The docSTAR MapConnect suite includes three applications that seamlessly integrate with ESRI ArcGIS software. MapLink allows users to quickly link documents with geospatial features. MapView is a web-based mapping application which enables users to click a point on a map and retrieve all associated documents. ArcMap Toolbar for ArcGIS Desktop lets users geographically retrieve documents without leaving their GIS software.

MapConnect has a host of universal benefits. Along with time and cost savings, docSTAR provides long-term document preservation. The software guards against theft and provides disaster protection.  Document authenticity is secured by the USPS Electronic Postmark (EPM) and compliance is supported for many regulations including GASB-34 and NPDES.


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