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What is ArcGIS StoryMaps?

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a story authoring web-based application that enables you to share your maps in the context of narrative text and other multimedia content. You can use ArcGIS StoryMaps to do the following:

  • Author stories with the story builder. Stories can include maps, narrative text, lists, images, videos, embedded items, and other media.
  • Publish and share your stories. Published stories each have their own URL, and you can use these URLs to share your stories within your organization, to specific groups, or with everyone.
  • Create and publish collections. Collections can include stories and ArcGIS web apps bundled together for easy sharing and presenting.
  • Manage your stories. View and edit your stories from the Stories page, find stories authored by others in your organization, and add stories to your favorites list.

Transition to ArcGIS StoryMaps from the classic Esri Story Maps

Stories are commonly used across ArcGIS to share maps with supporting text and media. As ArcGIS StoryMaps is being introduced, you can continue to create stories with the classic Esri Story Maps templates, such as Story Map Tour and Story Map Series. For more information about the status of the classic templates, see the Product Road Map page.

ArcGIS StoryMaps is the next-generation storytelling tool in ArcGIS, and story authors are encouraged to use this tool to create stories. There are a number of advantages to authoring stories with ArcGIS StoryMaps:

  • Story builder—ArcGIS StoryMaps provides a single authoring experience that gives you the flexibility to create stories with the content that is best suited for the topic.
  • Enhanced support for ArcGIS maps and scenes—You can configure web scenes and create bookmarks without leaving the story builder, and the pop-ups, legends, and other map elements have been improved.
  • Express maps—Simple, lightweight maps created in the story builder add basic geographic context to a narrative.
  • One-click themes—Change the look and feel of your story—background colors, accents, fonts, express maps, and more—with the click of a button.
  • Publishing workflow—Drafts and edits are automatically saved as you build the story. After a story has been published, you can make additional revisions or updates without affecting the shared version. When you are ready, you can republish the story to make your changes visible.
  • Mobile-first design—The tool's modern design is optimized for viewing stories on both desktop computers and mobile devices.
  • Discoverability—Improved search tools to find published stories within your organization and other useful ArcGIS content.
  • Social sharing—Published stories are easy to share and are displayed as formatted cards on social networks.