Custom Map with Flex API

Question

I'm utilizing the Flex API but want to use my own map that I've built in ArcDesktop.  My question is whether there is any way to utilize the cities, roads, and imagery layers that are part of the default maps in the map that I've built.  Is it possible to incorporate/alter the maps that come with the API?  Or do I just have to build something completely from scratch?

ErikTaylor · Answer

Erik,

from the sounds of this post you are not familiar with ArcGIS Server and Published Map Services, or I just don't understand your question. So if you have ArcGIS Server than you can take a MXD or MSD (Map Service Document) and publish them to Server using the Map Service Publishing toolbar in ArcMap for ArcGIS Server Manager. When a Map Service is published and you have Web Services installed then you can access your map service using REST endpoint just like you do ESRIs.

You are right that I'm new to map services :) . I understand that I can publish my own mxd as a map service and I have no problem building maps for use as map services. But I'm wondering if it is possible to somehow utilize say, the cities that show up in the default, canned maps that are part of the flex api in my own map service. Presently I've built my own city layers in arcdesktop, but I'd like my cities to match those in the default flex maps (imagery, street, topo--is it clear what maps i'm talking about here?). Or is there a way to use arcdesktop to modify those default maps?

Thanks for your time and patience.

rscheitlin · Answer

Erik,

from the sounds of this post you are not familiar with ArcGIS Server and Published Map Services, or I just don't understand your question. So if you have ArcGIS Server than you can take a MXD or MSD (Map Service Document) and publish them to Server using the Map Service Publishing toolbar in ArcMap for ArcGIS Server Manager. When a Map Service is published and you have Web Services installed then you can access your map service using REST endpoint just like you do ESRIs.