OCAD is the established standard for orienteering cartography, but it is not the only choice. For cartographers who prefer a free, open-source desktop application, OpenOrienteering Mapper is the direct alternative. We developed Gratic for a different workflow: a browser-based vector editor. It requires no installation and integrates open data sources, letting you start drawing on a georeferenced base map in seconds. Our files also open in OCAD, ensuring compatibility with existing workflows.
The main desktop alternatives to OCAD
For cartographers seeking an alternative to OCAD that maintains the traditional desktop software experience, OpenOrienteering Mapper (OOM) is the leading contender. It is a dedicated, open-source cartography program created specifically for orienteering maps. As a free application that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, it has become a popular choice for clubs and individuals. OOM covers the entire mapping process, from initial project setup with georeferencing to drawing with standard symbol sets and producing final layouts for print. Its interface and functionality will feel familiar to anyone experienced with desktop GIS or mapping software, making it a direct, feature-rich substitute for OCAD's core functions.
The primary difference lies in the workflow. With OOM, you download and install the application on your computer, and all your map files are stored and managed locally on your hard drive. This gives you complete control and ownership over your data, a factor many experienced cartographers find essential. Beyond OOM, some mappers adapt generalist vector graphics programs like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape for cartography. While powerful, these tools are not purpose-built for map-making and require significant setup. You must manually source and configure symbol sets, drawing tools, and templates to meet the precise specifications of standards like ISOM, which adds considerable work compared to a specialized editor.
When a desktop editor is the right choice
A desktop editor like OCAD or OpenOrienteering Mapper remains the best choice for several well-defined mapping scenarios. The most critical advantage is the capacity for completely offline work. For a cartographer conducting fieldwork in a forest or remote area without reliable internet access, a self-contained application on a laptop is non-negotiable. It allows for immediate data capture, on-site edits, and verification without depending on a connection. This offline capability is a foundational requirement for many traditional survey and mapping projects, ensuring work can proceed anywhere.
Performance on exceptionally large or complex maps can also favor a desktop application. When a map contains tens of thousands of individual objects, intricate contour lines, and dense vegetation symbols, the software must render it all smoothly. A dedicated desktop program can harness the full processing power and memory of a high-specification computer for these demanding tasks. This can result in a more fluid editing experience compared to a browser, which must operate within the resources allocated by the operating system. Furthermore, the established practices of many national orienteering federations and large clubs are built around desktop software. Their entire production pipeline, from initial drafting to pre-press checks, is often standardized on OCAD, making adherence to that standard the most efficient path to ensure compatibility.
The case for a browser-based map editor
We built Gratic to address the common points of friction in the traditional desktop mapping process. The most significant benefit is immediate accessibility. Because Gratic runs in a browser, there is nothing to install, update, or license. You can start work on any computer, whether it's a personal laptop, a library machine, or a shared club computer, simply by opening a tab and signing in. This model is particularly effective for collaborative projects where multiple mappers need to contribute, or for teaching cartography without the overhead of software installation on every student's machine.
A core part of our design philosophy is the direct integration of base data. Instead of requiring you to manually find, download, re-project, and import elevation data or existing vector layers, Gratic automates this setup. You can draw a rectangle over your area of interest, and the editor automatically pulls in the relevant contours, roads, and streams in standard orienteering symbols. This is possible because we integrate our own held elevation data with vector information from numerous national mapping services. This dramatically reduces the setup time for a new map, letting you focus on the actual cartography.
We also simplified the user management process. Our sign-in system uses a code sent to your email, so there are no passwords to create, remember, or reset. While Gratic offers a modern, browser-based workflow, we recognize that it must coexist with established tools. For this reason, we ensured that any map file you create in Gratic can be downloaded and opened directly in OCAD. This allows you to use Gratic for its strengths in rapid setup and easy access, then transition the file to a desktop editor for final printing or to meet club standards.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Gratic files with OCAD? Yes. We designed Gratic to be part of a modern workflow, not to lock you in. All maps created in Gratic can be opened and edited in OCAD, ensuring compatibility with existing club standards and printing processes.
What data sources does Gratic use? Gratic integrates open data to get you started quickly. This includes tile-by-tile elevation data we hold and vector data from various national mapping services. We maintain a public list of these data providers and their license terms on our site.
Do I need a license key to use Gratic? No. Gratic is a browser-based editor that requires no installation or license keys. You can start drawing immediately after signing in with your email, which removes the administrative overhead of managing software across multiple users or computers.
Can I work with my existing scanned maps? Yes, Gratic allows you to upload and georeference your existing scanned maps. You can then use them as a base layer for tracing new vector features, ensuring your new map aligns perfectly with previous surveys and historical data.