MapLink is activated using one of the mapping buttons in the database application.  MapLink displays graphic data over the top of a base map.  The spatial features can be labelled with any attributes, and each type is usually distinguished by an individual colour or symbol.  Depending on how MapLink is activated, the map window will either open displaying the last-used view, or it will automatically centre on the selected database record(s).   The default zoom scale can be set in the system INI file by the system administrator.

In ArcGIS a linked layer can consist of a single layer, or a composite layer ('family' layer) – see Creating map layers for specific detail on configuring linked layers. Annotation layers, which allow storing and editing of individual pieces of annotation, can also be included in linked family layers.