MapSherpa is a site where users can put together their own custom maps of Canada (terrain, urban streets and topographic), with their selected POIs and routes. A fee is required only to download (pdf) and print the maps. Alternatively, MapSherpa can arrange for the printing of larger maps through a local partner. Among the partners in the effort are NAVTEQ (for data) and Mountain Equipment Coop (the Canadian equivalent to REI).

In discussing the new offering DM Solutions' Dave McIlhagga explained to me that the company needed a new way to fund the development work it did in the open source space. With this model paying customers can fund tech needed for the MapSherpa site. More on that vision and implementation is discussed in this presentation from May. The site has been in development for about 18 months, with beta testing from mid-July. The original launch of the platform was in 2006. (press release, interview at GIS Cafe)

While many websites offer maps and ways to share adventures, McIlhagga explained, none have the detailed Canadian data. Further, he notes, none are really set up to create effective, custom, high quality printable maps.

This launch is interesting from a few perspectives:

- Open source continues to be the company's core technology
- The consulting firm has made a transition from B2B typically one off work to B2C commodity type work. I can't think of a GIS consultancy doing that in my years covering the industry.
- Custom maps, printed maps, per DM Solutions are still in high demand from outdoor enthusiasts. I'm the first to admit that nearly every organized bike ride and long run I do involves some type of paper cue sheet and map.
- This is a cloud endeavor. The site, data and apps are all cloud-based meaning growth - new data, new user communities, and new apps - are expected.