.WOR File Extension

MapInfo Workspace File

Developer	Pitney Bowes Software
Popularity	Average rating 4 / 5. Vote count: 7
Category	GIS Files
Format	.WOR
Cross Platform	Update Soon

What is an WOR file?

The .WOR file extension is associated with MapInfo, a geographic information system (GIS) software. It is used to store workspace information, including map layers, styles, and settings.

More Information.

The .WOR format was designed to facilitate the organization and presentation of spatial data in MapInfo, providing users with a way to save their workspace configurations for reuse or sharing.

Origin Of This File.

MapInfo, developed by Pitney Bowes Software, introduced the .WOR file format to save and restore the arrangement of maps and associated data layers within its GIS environment.

File Structure Technical Specification.

Content: Contains references to data sources (like shapefiles), layer styles, symbology settings, and layout configurations.
Format: Binary format specific to MapInfo, storing metadata and references rather than actual spatial data.

How to Convert the File?

Windows:

Open MapInfo Professional.
Load the .WOR file.
Save or export the workspace to a compatible format (e.g., .MIF/MID, .TAB) using the File > Save Workspace or Export options.

Linux:

Use Wine or a similar compatibility layer to run MapInfo Professional on Linux.
Follow the steps similar to Windows for opening and exporting .WOR files.

macOS (Mac):

Use virtualization software like Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion to run a Windows environment.
Install MapInfo Professional within the virtual machine.
Open the .WOR file in MapInfo Professional and export it to a compatible format.

Android:

Transfer the .WOR file to a compatible GIS app on Android that supports MapInfo workspaces.
Some GIS apps may offer direct support for .WOR files or require conversion within the app’s interface.

iOS (iPhone/iPad):

Transfer the .WOR file to a GIS app on iOS that supports MapInfo workspaces (if available).
Similar to Android, check if the GIS app supports direct opening or conversion of .WOR files.

Others:

Compatibility with other platforms may vary.
Consider using cross-platform GIS software that supports MapInfo formats or converting .WOR files to common GIS interchange formats like .MIF/MID or .TAB for broader compatibility.

Advantages And Disadvantages.

Advantages: Simplifies the management and sharing of GIS projects by preserving the setup of maps and layers.
Disadvantages: Dependency on MapInfo software for meaningful access; not suitable for direct storage of spatial data.