cartografica.xyz — free resource

Before hiring
GIS / CAD production

The questions your team must answer before outsourcing map and cartography production — to avoid wasting time and money in the process.

1 — Clarity about the work

Do we have a clear definition of exactly what deliverables we need (format, scale, coordinate reference system, file naming)?

Do we know how many internal person-hours we currently spend on this production?

Do we have examples of previous work that can serve as style and standard references?

Is the current process documented, or does it only exist in one person's head?

Is your source data in an open or standard format (SHP, DWG, GeoPackage, CSV with coordinates)?

Do you know the coordinate reference system of your data?

Does your data have known geometric errors (open polygons, overlaps, out-of-range coordinates)?

Is there a process for delivering data to the vendor without compromising confidential information?

Is the workload clearly defined, or can it grow without warning?

Do you have intermediate delivery dates or just a final deadline?

Who in your organization validates and approves deliverables?

How many revision rounds are reasonable within the timeframe?

Do you need a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before sharing data or plans?

Is it clear that the final deliverables are your organization's property?

Does your data have usage or distribution restrictions (government data, licenses, etc.)?

Does the vendor have demonstrable experience with the software you use (QGIS, AutoCAD, MicroStation)?

Can they show similar work in type and complexity?

Do they have capacity to scale if volume increases?

Is the point of contact technical or only commercial?

16–20 checked: You're ready to outsource with low risk of friction.

10–15: There are gaps worth closing first — a good vendor can help you identify them.

Under 10: Before hiring, a diagnostic session is advisable to avoid costly rework.

Want to review your checklist with us?

We'll respond within 48 hours and tell you exactly where we can help.

cartografica.xyz — GIS and CAD for projects that can't afford delays
https://cartografica.xyz/en/