Built on Oracle, HPD combines a Source Database and Product Database into one solution. The Source Database provides seamless and non-redundant storage and maintenance of spatial and non-spatial data used for all hydrographic products. The Product Database delivers storage and maintenance of product definitions, including coverage and cartographic representations and historical versions of products.

Using the same data model in the Source and Product Databases means changes in the source data can be tracked all the way to the product(s) using it. When a product is created, it is not cut loose from the Source Database. Every time a product is opened, the database is contacted for any possible changes to the data in the product. The product can then be updated directly, upon user approval, from the Source Database. Products can then be exported to suitable formats. Currently there is product support for S-57 Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) with future releases to support Paper Chart and Digital Nautical Chart (DNCâ) production.

Among the highlights of CARIS HPD include: Multiple user access, seamless coverage with no chart boundaries, no duplicate objects, historical versions and multiple representations. Version 2.0 users bring users improved performance speed and a streamlined user interface.