Consistent Growth, Substantial Accomplishments
Esri in 2000—Continued Firm Footing for New Millennium
"Esri's success is best reflected by the successes of our users and partners—whose footprints illustrate that the concepts and use of GIS continue to grow in acceptance and adoption," says Jack Dangermond, president of Esri. "In 2000, Esri's user base grew to more than 100,000 organizations. This is a huge responsibility and one we don't take lightly. Esri has been managed to be financially very stable while at the same time investing substantial sums in evolving GIS technology. Managing our growth will require continued dedication to the principles that have made Esri successful in the past—being responsive to our customers, developing the best technology, managing our resources carefully, and being a good company with good people."
The company's accomplishments for the year are impressive and substantial with major expansions in 20 industries. Esri's users are working on virtually all of the world's problems ranging from the environment to conservation to land use planning to resource allocation. Esri continues its efforts to provide its users with the methods and technology to create, analyze, and apply geographic knowledge to problem solving.
Esri Product Highlights in 2000
ArcGIS 8.1—ArcGIS 8.1 made its debut at Esri's User Conference last year, marking a major breakthrough in the evolution of Esri software. The ArcGIS 
software family is a scalable system for geographic data creation, management, integration, and analysis for every organization, from individual to global enterprise.
The state-of-the-art software components of ArcGIS are ArcView, ArcEditor, ArcInfo, ArcGIS extensions, ArcSDE, and ArcIMS. The 8.1 releases of ArcView, ArcEditor, and ArcInfo provide users with common architecture, code base, and extension models along with a single development environment. www.esri.com/arcgis
ArcInfo 8.0.1—ArcInfo 8.0.1 was the most significant release of GIS software in 2000. Backed by a comprehensive research and development effort, ArcInfo 8.0.1 is a new platform for creating, managing, disseminating, and applying geographic knowledge. Introducing a new object-oriented data model, ArcInfo 8.0.1 was built using IT standards and features groundbreaking ease of use, open platform support, and powerful cartographic production.
The first GIS to fully integrate DBMS technology, ArcInfo 8.0.1 uses ArcSDE as an integral part, enabling users to fully manage spatial data along with their other Business data using standard DBMS practices. Customizing ArcInfo 8.0.1 is straight-forward with its unlimited customization options. www.esri.com/arcinfo
ArcInfo 8.0.2—The release of ArcInfo 8.0.2 in April brought added support for Windows 2000, extended international support, and quality and performance improvements including coverage editing, geodatabase operations, and ArcSDE for SQL Server. www.esri.com/arcinfo
ArcIMS 3—In May 2000, Esri released ArcIMS 3, the foundation for distributing GIS data and applications on the Internet. The ability to integrate geographic data from many sources for display on your desktop is a new feature of this software, and ArcIMS is the only software that can simultaneously access Web data and local data—shapefiles, ArcSDE layers, images, and more—all in a simple browser interface. Other ArcIMS enhancements include its simple installation, implementation, and administration with wizards and templates; an open and interoperable environment; a multitier architecture; powerful clients that support streaming vector data; highly scalable server architecture; and high-quality cartographic rendering. www.esri.com/arcims
MapObjects LT 2—MapObjects LT 2 represents a significant upgrade to MapObjects LT. MapObjects LT 2 includes more than 20 programmable mapping objects 
that give organizations the most powerful and comprehensive collection of royalty-free mapping components available. MapObjects LT 2 is a lightweight version of MapObjects, Esri's professional embeddable mapping component software. MapObjects LT 2 offers many new capabilities including new renderers, geometric objects, and spatial search methods. It also provides a new statistics object and enhanced output methods for more flexibility when plotting and printing. www.esri.com/mapobjectslt
ArcExplorer—Esri released two new versions of its free GIS data viewer, ArcExplorer, in 2000. ArcExplorer 2 is the latest update of the Windows version of ArcExplorer. It offers support for a range of image formats, military formats, CAD formats, and address matching. ArcExplorer 3 is the Java version of the software. It offers cross-platform support for both Windows and UNIX. Both versions of ArcExplorer can be downloaded free of charge at www.esri.com/arcexplorer.
RouteMAP IMS 2—RouteMAP IMS 2 offers more data than previous versions, enhanced performance, and increased user flexibility. This affordably priced, Internet mapping, routing, and location services solution offers several street data sets for the United States, Europe, and Canada. RouteMAP IMS 2 optimizes routes between multiple points such as applications for real estate home tours or visits to multiple sites by building inspectors. Other new features include finding by intersection, templates for changing the interface quickly within the Internet browser, improved API for customization, the addition of Spanish and German languages, and a performance monitor to analyze loading characteristics of the map server. www.esri.com/routemapims
ArcLogistics Route 2—ArcLogistics Route 2 was a major new release from Esri in 2000. ArcLogistics Route 2 includes expanded solver functionality, multiple street data extractions, improved geocoding tools, and higher quality street data. ArcLogistics Route 2 accommodates more routing routines by enabling users to specify route renewal points for reloading and unloading, and it has the latest street data from Geographic Data Technology, Inc. www.esri.com/arclogisticsroute
PC ARC/INFO 4.0—PC ARC/INFO 4.0 shipped in 2000. The new version introduces 32-bit Windows executables for faster performance on Windows 95, 98, 2000, and NT operating systems. Image support in PC ARCPLOT and PC ARCEDIT, double-precision coverages, new spatial operators, user-defined commands, and persistent and multilevel relates on data files are among its new features. www.esri.com/pcarcinfo
Maplex 3.4—Maplex 3.4, a new version of Esri's automated text placement and cartographic design software, added a number of enhancements including automatic street index generation, Guide to Numbered Features, symbology masking for overlaying text, direct read of DGN files, and custom fill and line patterns. www.esri.com/maplex
Military Overlay Editor—In 2000, Esri also introduced Military Overlay Editor (MOLE), a new symbol generator and editor for military applications. Designed as an easy-to-use tool for quick creation of complex symbology within modern battlefield planning applications, MOLE reads the MIL-STD 2525 15-character message string and all other unit descriptors specified in the standard. www.esri.com/mole
ArcView Spatial Analyst 2—Esri released two ArcView GIS extensions last year. ArcView Spatial Analyst 2 introduced ModelBuilder, a new technology that integrates logical modeling with GIS functionality. It supplies both beginning and advanced users with a set of easy-to-use tools for quickly building and interacting with different types of spatial models. www.esri.com/spatialanalyst
ArcView Image Analysis 1.1—ArcView Image Analysis 1.1 significantly expands the geographic imaging capabilities for ArcView GIS users by giving them access to a broader range of data types; it particularly emphasizes the growing uses and applications of aerial photography and other remotely sensed data. ArcView Image Analysis 1.1 adds new capabilities for mosaicking imagery in a single-button operation and setting and managing user preferences and includes additional data enhancement options. www.esri.com/imageanalysis
NetEngine 1.2—A new version of the programmers' library software, NetEngine 1.2 shipped in 2000. Designed for geographic network analysis, defining such things as streets, railways, utility and distribution facilities, or rivers, NetEngine 1.2 includes new solvers, improved performance, and options that add flexibility for programmers. www.esri.com/netengine
ArcPad—The solutions for mobile mapping and GIS, ArcPad 5 and ArcPad 5.0.1 became available in 2000. ArcPad software provides database access, mapping, and GIS to users in the field via handheld and mobile devices. Data collection with ArcPad is fast and easy with immediate data validation and availability. ArcPad went wireless with the availability of ArcPad 5.0.1, making image or map downloading possible via wireless technology. www.esri.com/arcpad
Our Global Network
User Conference—The Twentieth Annual Esri International User Conference theme, "Geography, Our Global Network," focused on GIS as it becomes a mainstream component of information technology. With more than two million GIS users worldwide, the application and dissemination of geographic knowledge has grown explosively, resulting in Businesses that are more efficient, better governments, and a society with a better understanding of the world.
More than 10,000 people from 140 countries attended the conference June 26-30, 2000, which was packed with seminars, workshops, and software demonstrations. Dr. Charles Groat, director of the U.S. Geological Survey, delivered the keynote address that emphasized the importance of cooperation and focusing on the big picture.
Jack Dangermond, Esri president, announced the Geography Network at the conference, explaining the Esri vision of creating a collaboration of multiparticipants (public and private agencies) publishing and sharing GIS information on the Internet. "For me, this is the most exciting thing Esri has ever done," he said. "It's service-oriented and built on the Internet technology." www.esri.com/uc
Supporting an Open Environment
Geography Network—The Geography Network (www.geographynetwork.com) is a gateway for spatial data. Esri is hosting the portal, maintaining a registry of data, providing technology, and promoting GIS on the Web. As of December 2000, the Geography Network had more than 900 pieces of content including map services, solutions, data sets, geoservices, map images, and clearinghouses; data from more than 23 companies; links to map sites; and the Esri Mapping System, which stores the maps and data published on the network. The system can serve more than one million maps per day. www.geographynetwork.com and www.esri.com/news/geographynetwork
Providing a Wealth of Information
GIS.com—Also making a debut at the User Conference was the new Web site (www.GIS.com), an education site and jumping station for anyone interested in mapping and GIS. With a wealth of information and resources, GIS.com aims to become the Internet source for those interested in GIS as a technology and a profession.
GIS Day—Millions of children and adults were introduced to GIS on November 15, 2000, the second annual GIS Day. Organizations around the world held events to educate people about GIS and the impact it has on their everyday lives. Open houses, map galleries, software demonstrations, tours, and hands-on activities were among the many GIS Day events. Register for GIS Day 2001—November 14, 2001—at www.gisday.com.
JLocationservices.com—Users of location services can benefit from a new Web site developed by Esri and Sun Microsystems called Java Location Services (www.jlocationservices.com). This first-of-its-kind Web portal provides valuable information about real-world location service applications and technologies for Business, government, and consumers. Additionally, the site highlights how GIS provides the enablers of location services with the tools needed to harness the power of location.
Esri Press—Esri Press broadened its offerings with the publication of several new books. GIS in Public Policy and Beyond Maps cover the use of geographic information in the public sector. The Esri Press Case Study Series added Integrating GIS and the Global Positioning System and GIS in Schools to its list.
Esri Press also released a collection of technical papers by leading hydrologists, Hydrologic and Hydraulic Modeling Support, as well as the long-awaited Dictionary of GIS Terminology. www.esri.com/esripress
Prime-Time GIS
The District—Esri's GIS technology is featured on CBS's new police drama, The District. The show airs on Saturday nights and stars Craig T. 
Nelson (as Chief of Police Jack Mannion) and Lynne Thigpen (as Ella Farmer, director of crime analysis and an ArcView user).
Each weekly episode incorporates real examples of GIS in law enforcement and uses ArcView live during the filming. The District has consistently been the number one show on Saturday evenings, and it attracts more than 13 million viewers each week. Since this is the first prime-time television show to feature GIS, it has attracted a growing following among GIS users.
National Recognition
Hammer Awards—Esri's steadfast commitment to encourage the use of GIS achieved national recognition in 2000. As a member of three U.S. government teams, Esri received three Hammer Awards from the National Partnership for Reinventing Government. The award recognizes teams of federal employees and their partners, whose work results in a government that works better and costs less.
Esri received the Hammer Award for its work with the U.S. Census Bureau team in 1996 to help build the Data Access and Dissemination System, which became an Internet site known as American FactFinder. Esri also received Hammer Awards for its work with the NSDI demonstration projects and the USGS National Atlas.
National Mining Association's Chairman's Award for Excellence in Mining Education—The National Mining Association honored Esri in October with its Chairman's Award for Excellence in Mining Education. The award went to Esri for the educational programs it maintains in K-12 schools, community colleges and universities, public and college libraries, museums, nature centers, and other sites for education of the public. Earth sciences and mining technology are primary components of these programs.
Expanded Business Alliances
Business Partner Program—In 2000, Esri partners continued to expand service offerings providing consulting and application development to users including users in need of Internet/Intranet implementations. Esri's Business Partners are broadening their scope to include industry areas such as Business and retail, public safety, agriculture, telecommunications, and health care. Internationally, Esri has users in more than 200 countries and has more than 75 international distributors. www.esri.com/partners
Corporate Partner Highlights—Esri continues to develop strong relationships with its corporate partners. Upgrading the SAP Business information system, embedding ArcSDE in IBM and Informix database products, and introducing Sun Microsystems ArcIMS seminars were among the highlights.
Esri's Digital America seminar series with its partners, Compaq Computer Corporation; Space Imaging, Inc.; and Geographic Data Technology, Inc., along with the magazine Government Computer News, was held in 27 locations throughout the United States and drew record attendance from government administrators and technology specialists. The daylong sessions covered the latest developments in GIS for state government. www.esri.com/corporatepartners
Training Has Never Been Easier
Instructor-Led Software Classes—More than 60,000 students worldwide enrolled in Esri's instructor-led software classes in 2000. Esri software training is more accessible than ever with classes available at regional offices, client sites, and international distributors around the world. In the United States and more than 50 countries, Esri third party instructors now number more than 1,000. New instructor-led courses support the new software releases for ArcGIS 8.1 and ArcIMS 3.1. www.esri.com/training
Esri Virtual Campus—The Esri Virtual Campus had a very significant enrollment of 77,000 in 2000. Twenty-nine courses in various disciplines are available, covering GIS technology, GIS applications in various industries, and nine free introductory learning modules. Learn more about Esri Training and Education.
Looking Ahead
Committed to building strong relationships, providing personal service, and making a real difference, Esri heads into the new millennium focused on its users as its most important asset. This is an exciting time in the history of Esri, and there are many exciting events in store for Esri users in the months and years ahead.
