How to Navigate ArcGIS StoryMaps - New Infographic and 360 Tools

🌐 Introduction

ArcGIS StoryMaps has evolved far beyond the era of static map pins and screenshots. It’s now a full-fledged storytelling platform — blending geospatial intelligence with multimedia creativity. With Esri’s latest rollout of infographic blocks and 360° immersive media, GIS professionals and digital storytellers can craft experiences that aren’t just seen, but felt.

Imagine walking your audience through a refugee camp reconstruction plan, visualizing real-time infrastructure stats in colorful infographic layouts, or letting them virtually explore a coral reef in 360° — all within a scrolling, mobile-friendly web story. Whether you're reporting policy impacts, educating the public, or pitching to stakeholders, these tools turn spatial data into engaging narratives that inform and inspire.

These updates come at a perfect time, when data visualization needs to compete with attention spans. ArcGIS StoryMaps’ new features aren't just bells and whistles — they’re strategic storytelling assets for anyone serious about impactful GIS communication.

🔍 What’s New in ArcGIS StoryMaps?

✅ Infographic Block Enhancements:

• New layout templates (comparison, grid, hierarchy)

• Dynamic data binding with ArcGIS Online items

• Color customization and responsive design options

🎥 360° Media Support:

• Upload your own 360° panoramas or link to URLs

• Embed immersive views directly in a scrolling story

• Supports mobile gyroscope interaction

📅 How to Use the Infographic Tools

Step-by-Step:

1. Open your story in ArcGIS StoryMaps Builder

2. Click "+" and choose Infographic

3. Pick from layout styles (Pie chart, Summary stats, Icons)

4. Connect to a dataset or manual entry

5. Style it with themes, colors, and icons

Use-Cases:

• Compare urban population growth across cities

• Show the distribution of amenities using icons

• Highlight KPIs in smart city dashboards

🌟 Leveraging 360° Media for Immersive GIS

How-To:

• Capture your 360° image using Insta360 or Ricoh Theta

• Upload to your ArcGIS Online Content Library

• Add to your story and use the fullscreen toggle

Use-Cases:

• Virtual field tours for geography classrooms

• Before-and-after views of disaster impact zones

• Tourism storytelling with interactive viewpoints

🚀 Final Thoughts & CTA

ArcGIS StoryMaps' new features make it easier than ever to tell stories that feel alive, with data, visuals, and immersive experience all in one frame. Start experimenting today, and share your results with the community!