Yes, we are considering an API for indiemapper but it is a long-term goal for us. We’ll keep you informed of any future developments.

Rich: Thanks for your nice note about indiemapper! I promise, we weren’t trying to sell out any of our cartographic brethren just trying to make things easier on you. We built indiemapper because it was the software WE wanted from our experience producing static maps. If we can cut expensive software out of your current cartography workflow, allowing you to go from spatial data to thematic maps quicker, easier, and cheaper, hopefully that is a good thing for your business! Remember: It’s the carpenter, not the tools so you still have lots of design expertise to bring to all of your projects (and if all else fails… there’s always jargon!).

Bjørn: Indiemapper only produces static maps. However, it exports these maps as SVG or as PNG / JPEG and you can embed these images anywhere you like. We’ve also included the ability to export thematic attributes in your SVG which opens up lots of interactive possibilities if you’re good with that format.

Ben: Yes, there will be academic pricing! It will be $20 / month and you’ll need a valid university / college / school email to sign up. For full details, visit: http://indiemapper.com/student.php

But I am confused as this is a signal that professional cartographers (Axis Maps) are betting that their custom map clients will be making maps online themselves and not paying them to make them, or at least some significant % of their client base.

And it is reasonable to assume such, following online trends, and where we will be in 5 years. If Axis Maps doesn’t do it, someone else will.

Of course this is in direct competition with me, as I potential new clients may opt to use Indiemapper to make their maps instead of hiring me but that’s the nature of capitalism.

Very impressive piece of work!