.. module:: geoext.basics
    :synopsis: Learn how to create a map window with GeoExt.

.. _geoext.basics:

GeoExt Basics
=============

`GeoExt <http://geoext.org/>`_ is a young, rapidly-developing library for
building rich, web-based GIS applications. The library is built upon
`Ext JS <http://extjs.com/>`_ and `OpenLayers <http://openlayers.org/>`_. The
former provides UI components for building web applications along with solid
underlying data components, the latter is the de-facto standard for dynamic web 
mapping.

GeoExt provides mapping related UI components. It also unifies access to
information from `OGC <http://opengeospatial.org/>`_ services, OpenLayers
objects and arbitrary remote data sources. This allows for easy presentation of
geospatial information in a wide choice of widgets, ranging from combo boxes or
grids to maps and trees. It has a friendly API, reduces the number of lines of
code required, and results in engaging and responsive mapping applications.

This module introduces fundamental GeoExt concepts for creating a map.

What this module covers
-----------------------

In this module you will:

.. toctree::
    :maxdepth: 1
    
    Create a map window, <map>
    Dissect your map, <dissect>
    Find documentation and additional learning resources. <resources>