[pstricks] shapefiles

[Wojtowicz, Ralph]

The pst-geo package can create beautiful maps in LaTeX documents but appear to be limited by the fact that they can use only two data sources.  Does anyone have experience generating LaTeX graphics from ESRI shapefiles (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shapefile).  I have hacked together a few examples by using a Java tool to convert shapefile data to a PostScript array, similar to the CIA World Databank files used in pst-geo.  The openmap.jar library (http://openmap.bbn.com/) can be used to parse shapfiles.  I then include PostScript code in a pstverb command to read the array and generate plots.  Managing resolution and other features is done within the Java code.  I am looking for ideas for how to design a more general tool within LaTeX/PostScript.  Perhaps others on this list already have solutions.

Thanks,
Ralph Wojtowicz
Metron, Inc.
1818 Library Street, Suite 600
Reston, VA  20190
USA