WMS / WFS

WMS (Web Map Service) and WFS (Web Feature Service) are international standard protocols defined by the OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium) for sharing geographic information over the internet.

• WMS (Maps as Images): The server sends a "photo" of the map. It's useful for viewing cartographic backgrounds, orthophotos, or the Cadastre, but doesn't allow editing or selecting objects individually. It's visual.
• WFS (Maps as Data): The server sends the actual vectors (points, lines, polygons) with their attributes. It allows the client software to "touch" the object, query its data, and even edit it. It's functional.

Why are they vital for Public Administration?

The era of downloading gigantic files and sending them by USB is over. Modern administration demands interoperability. Thanks to these protocols, a municipality can connect its management software with external official servers in real-time:

• View the latest Cadastre update without downloading anything.
• Overlay the water network map on the lighting map.
• Consult the PNOA (National Aerial Orthophotography Plan) always up to date.

Maptainer: Native Connection with Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDI)

Many maintenance software claim to have maps, but only use Google Maps as a background. Maptainer is a complete GIS client. Our platform allows you to add any public or private WMS or WFS service as another layer of your working map.

Practical Example: A technician can activate the Cadastre WMS layer within Maptainer to check whether a broken streetlight is on a public or private facade, ensuring the legality of the intervention without leaving the application.