Frequently Asked Questions

What's in the IndianaMap?

You can find everything from census data and demographics to floodplains and landcover, but the main focus is on framework data. The current goal for the IndianaMap is to have statewide coverage for nine essential sets of data, known as framework data. Simply put, framework data are the basics.

Boundaries and Governmental Units - The different types of boundaries the government uses to organize itself and information.
Cadastral Information - The basis for all land ownership mapping, used to show past, current and future rights and interest in property.
PLSS - Public Land Survey System, a system for subdividing and describing land.
Elevation - Topography and elevations of land surfaces.
Geodetic Control - A network of carefully measured points that can be used as a reference for surveys or to establish or measure accuracy in map making.
Waters - Water bodies, rivers and wetlands.
Orthophotography - Aerial photographic images that are enhanced to have the properties of a map.
Streets - Road systems.
Addresses - Point addresses.

Where is the IndianaMap?

You can access your IndianaMap through the online interactive map or in libraries around the state.

The IndianaMap is so much more than a website, it's the process of pulling all this information together, finding ways to store and update it, and making it available to government, education, the private sector and the general public in a variety of formats and locations. So really, your IndianaMap is everywhere.

Who's building the IndianaMap?

A coalition of government, academic, nonprofit and private organizations are building the IndianaMap. Participation is open to anyone through the IndianaMap Committee and its workgroups. Managing partners include:

Indiana Geographic Information Office
Indiana Geographic Information Council
Indiana Geological Survey
Indiana University - University Information Technology Services (UITS)

Where does the information come from?

All levels of government and other institutions contribute data, each piece bringing us one step closer to a single statewide map.

Why is it so challenging?

Everyone who contributes information has their own way of doing things - their own software, procedures, even names. It takes the willingness and cooperation of hundreds of organizations and agencies.

How can I give input?

As a collaborative project, the IndianaMap relies heavily on the participation of stakeholders. Input is solicited from as many sectors as possible before major decisions or initiatives are enacted. Valuable information has come from surveyors, government employees, GIS professionals, planners, military personel, elected officials, utility employees, emergency responders and more.

Anyone interested in shaping the IndianaMap is strongly encouraged to join a framework data workgroup, contact workgroup chairs with concerns, or attend Board Meetings of the Indiana Geographic Information Council.