Have trial version of MP 2011. Before I buy I want to know if it will do what I want it to do. Any help, direction much appreciated.
I know that if I enter a postal code in the search the program will show me exactly where that postal code is on the map. I also know that I can draw on the map to outline a particular geographical area that is circular or any other shape for that matter. What I want to do is to define a region on the map by drawing its outline and get the program to generate a list of all 6 digit postal codes in that area. I want to copy and paste that list into my website thereby defining a service area. Also If I draw two adjoining areas the postal code areas that are split by the common boarder must only show up on one of the list. i.e. no postal code can end up on more than one list. Hope this is clear. Thanks for the help.

MapPoint 2011 doesn't have demographic data for Canada, and when you create territories the only postal code option is FSA, for six character, you need the LDU as well.

I think the only option would be to buy a list of all FSA and LDU's with lat/lon and then import into MapPoint, then to export you would draw your polygon, right-click on it, and then export to Excel.

As long as your polygons don't overlap and you import the postal codes as points, they shouldn't appear on more than one list.

I don't really know how expensive a Canadian postal code database is or where to get them but a search will turn stuff up quickly including advertisers with the data.

canadian postal code database - Bing (http://www.bing.com/search?q=canadian+postal+code+database)

canadian postal code database - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?q=canadian+postal+code+database)

hope this helps!

Eric

While it is true that typing in a postal code will take you to that location, MapPoint doesn't export this data.

You'll need a database with the list of FSA codes and an application with code that will extract data from the one or more regions selected.
You probably have data or points of interest within those postal codes, as well.

We have an application written that uses WPF and C# with SQL Server that could be adapted for your purposes. It is fast even with millions of records.
Please feel free to contact us.

Thank you both for answers will get back.