A SLIP map makes data in SLIP available through an on-line map, variously referred to as a map viewer, application or portal. Locate is an example of a SLIP map service.

A SLIP service is used to feed data into desktop GIS software or an application. SLIP services are available in a number of different formats to suit different types of software and application environments. Examples include Web Feature Services (WFS) and Web Map Services (WMS).