Objectives
- Understanding the relationship between maps and data sources
- Learning to create a map from a data source
- Learning to customize the appearance of a layer
- Learning to filter the data through classes
- Learning how to add multiple layers to a map
- Learning how to save a map in the platform
Prerequisites
- Have all the data sources from the previous tutorial important into the Library
What is the relationship between maps and data sources ?
The Maps section is used to geoposition and visualize selected data sources from the Library into a map. In that sense, the Maps section is used as a graphical interface to analyze, customize and superpose different layers of data.
How to create a map from a data source ?
To create a map from a data source, access the Library section and then click on the Wards data source imported in the previous tutorial. In the new window that appears to the right, click on the planet button to map the data.
A graphical representation of the data will then appear, with a randomly generated color scheme.
How to customize the appearance of a layer?
To customize the look of a data layer (color, transparency, outline, etc.), click on it to open the menu.
In the menu that pops up, click on the Class, then pick the preferred color and click on the "Apply" button.
Tip: For more customization options, click on the "Advanced..." button to see the available parameters.
How to filter data through classes ?
At the top of the menu allowing color selection, notice the Filter textbox. This option enables the filtering of a data source through its fields (data columns). Press "OK" to dismiss the menu.
Click on the little ( i ) icon on the Wards layer in the layer tree, then navigate to the Data thumbnail to view the different fields and values in the data source.
Take note of the ward field and its associated values, which are all gonna be used for the creation of the filter.
Close the data window with the button at the bottom, then go back to the Filter textbox by clicking on the Wards layer and then on its Class. We will now be able to show only part of the data source with the help of a filter.
Set a meaningful name to the Class (such as Ward #1), then enter the following into the Filter textbox:
[ward] = 1
This will have the effect of displaying only records with the value "1" into the ward field of the data source. Click the "OK" button to apply the filter and notice the changes on the map.
Tip: To apply a filter on a field with a "text" type, use the following syntax '[field]' = 'filter'
It is possible to add multiple Classes to customize the appearance of the layer and filter out the records we wish to display.
Click on the "New class" button at the bottom of the menu and notice the return of the rest of the wards on the map, but in a different color. Set a meaningful name to this class (such as Other wards) and click the "OK" button to apply the changes.
Before passing through to the next step, raise the layer's transparency to "40" with the slider at the top of the menu, then click on the "OK" button.
How to add multiple layers to a map ?
To add an additional data source to the map, you simply need to drag and drop it on the map area. There is no limit as to how much layers can be on the map.
Tip : To reduce the load on your internet connection and keep a responsive platform, try to add the necessary layers only.
Locate the Points of interest data source in the left part of the screen, then drag and drop it on the map to add it.
Notice that the data source is now added to the map as a layer, but that no point appeared. This is normal, as the data source is currently empty. Make sure that the Points of interest layer is the first one in the layer tree, as this order is used to manage superposition.
How to save a map ?
The map being completed, it is important to save it to the platform to keep all modifications.
To do that, click on the "Save and close" button located at the top right corner of the screen. Name your map "Tutorial_wards", then click on the "OK" button to confirm.
Summary
In this section, we studied the relationship between data sources and maps inside the platform.
We also saw that data sources can have their appearance customized, as well as being filtered to show only the wanted data.
Finally, we saw how to add various data sources to the map to have multiple layers, as well as the importance of ordering the layer tree for superposition.
Before continuing to the next tutorial, make sure to have these layers imported in your map:
- Wards
- Points of interest
For more information on the Maps section, move to the documentation of the platform at YourName > Documentation > Maps.
Questions or need some precisions? Contact us at support@mapgears.com
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