The mapping process begins with the selection of a mapping software tool. Some software packages are highly specialized for particular industries, while others are more general purpose and can be tailored to a variety of businesses.

Once a mapping tool is selected, the following steps occur:

• Determine project goals and results
• Determine the required level of precision for mapping coordinates
• Identify corporate data to be mapped
• Build database of corporate and demographic data to be used
• Validate and map the data
• Load the data into a mapping application and view the results

Use your map to perform "what if" and other types of business analysis