Using Query Mode

Summary

The last several chapters have demonstrated the use of MapServer’s CGI interface, and have made clear that applications of real utility can be built with CGI. You should take a moment to consider the elegance of an application that can do so much and be so flexible without the necessity of program writing. However, applications that need a more sophisticated user interface, or that have more complex query capabilities, will require other tools. Server-side scripts and real database management systems are two examples of how the functionality of MapServer might be increased.

The next three chapters will introduce a more powerful way to access MapServer’s capabilities: MapScript. MapScript is an API (application program interface) that allows applications written in several language to make calls to MapServer functions and then use the results in whatever way the developer wishes. MapScript frees the developer from the limitations of the web-based user interface and provides access to other tools (such as DBMSs) so that very powerful applications can be constructed. Such applications can provide map-rendering and spatial-query capabilities as part of a suite of tools.

Three flavors of MapScript will be described: Perl MapScript, Python MapScript, and PHP MapScript. You’ll use each to build applications that provide a nearly identical look, feel, and functionality, in order for you to gain a clear understanding of their similarities and differences.