The new PGAtlas is quite a departure from the form and function of the old site. The old site utilized GIS software by ESRI called ArcIMS to provide maps and geospatial functionality. The new site uses a more powerful software by ESRI called ArcGIS Server. Much of the work has been shifted from the server to the client, meaning your browser is performing harder and the maps and data are displayed faster. The new PGAtlas is also more compatible with other browsers, such as Firefox, and many of the previous browser requirements have been lifted.

So where did all the stuff from the old PGAtlas go? That is a question many users will ask. What we tried to do was provide a site where you can come in and obtain general information, as well as specific data, without having to view a map if it is not necessary. The result is the tabbed interface with a "home" page. Most of the functionality of the old PGAtlas can be found in the mapping tab. The tutorial contains in-depth information on how the mapping tab functions. The other tabs, aside from the home tab, allow you to query data and create reports for specific datasets. This is similar to some of the searches you can do in the mapping tab, but without having to wait for a map to load. This allows for quick report creation and maps are provided of the area of interest in the reports.

The home page provides a quick view of what is going on with PGAtlas. The news section contains updates to the site and the Map Gallery provides published maps for you to view, save, and print. Other areas include an announcement section for critical announcements, contact information, links, and the feedback form. The is also a section where you can register on the site to perform more advanced searches and save maps. Registration is not required.

If there are any questions or issues concerning the changes in PGAtlas, please send your comments to us via the feedback form on the home page. We appreciate your feedback.