A navigation system uses XML/SVG format map data for achieving flexibility in modifying the map data. A method of converting geographic data into the XML/SVG format map data includes the steps of retrieving the geographic data, analyzing the retrieved geographic data for its data elements structure, data type and semantics, and converting the analyzed data to the XML/SVG format map data for use with the navigation system. The XML/SVG format map data is constructed in a layered structure created based on administrative regions such as states, counties and cities. The XML/SVG format map data can be delivered to a remote user as a unit of administrative region through a communication network.