Map Layers

Overview

The Map Layers register provides a method of importing geospatial data for system-wide mapping that can only be managed by administrators. The register enables layers of different types and formats to be configured and supports real-time data updates. These maps can include the dashboard map, register map view, asset selection maps or for viewing and editing map annotations.

For individual events, users can upload geospatial features can use the Library module to import layers using the Geospatial Feature type.There are two supported Layer Types:

• Base Layer - static images or tiles configured as the background map. Depending on your configuration, base layers may be included with your system such as maps or satellite image for your local area where available (these may be subject to separate licensing arrangements). Open Street Map is usually included as standard.

• Feature Layer - (or Overlays) features displayed over base layers, such as points, polygons and icons (these may need to have transparent or semi-transparent backgrounds so as not to obscure the base layer underneath). Some feature layers are included as standard for each of the main registers in use on your site. Overlays can also be added via the Library as a geospatial feature, those have the additional benefit of being able to search within.

Formats

The system accepts data from a wide range of standard geospatial formats and additionally has the ability to create custom queries.

The following formats are accepted (you can select the most suitable format/s for your project):

Crisisworks Query Language (CQL)

You can create a map layer based on a query. This is useful if you want to show a filtered view of map data, for example all of the items within a specific zone.

To do this, you'll first need to know the Register you want to query and then write a query for it.

You can create a query using the filtering system which can be for a single event or all events.

GeoJSON

GeoJSON is an open standard for simple geographical features and their attributes.

You can use this to define points, linestrings and polygons and to describe the geospatial features that they point to.

The Map Layers register allows you to use either an uploaded or external URL as a source for GeoJSON data and specify basic attributes such as colours.

GeoJSON feeds provide real-time geographical data. The GeoRSS format (no longer supported) can be converted by web services into this.

Keyhole Markup Language (KML)

Keyhole Markup Language (KML) is an interoperable international standard notation for Internet mapping which is based on XML and is compatible. Use this format for adding layers representing information that change infrequently (ie. Municipal boundaries, 1-in-100 year flood extent etc).

The latest versions of MapInfo and ArcGIS are capable of exporting to this format. Shapefiles can be converted using tools such as shape2ge. Google Earth Pro can also be used for editing and managing KML files. Note: Datalink cannot support you in the use of these third party tools.

• Only valid KML files with a .kml extension are accepted, KMZ (.kmz) archives or any other variant of KML are not accepted.

• It can only process the one KML file and although it is possible to upload an archive, the map layer will not display.

• To use information bubbles on the map, add data into the name and description attributes of the feature. It is common for geospatial tools to support writing an HTML table into the description attribute.

Open Street Map (OSM)

With the OSM function, you can use this free open license map database which is maintained by open collaboration. OSM is usually configured by default as a Base Layer, though you may use your local map provider instead. As such there is nothing you need to do with this. It can be deactivated if not wanted or needed.

Web Feature Service (WFS)

With this function you can use the WFS standard to request geographical features over the web. It supports databases, files and other web services using a Spatial Referencing System (SRS) by referencing the Source and source data layer.

Web Map Service (WMS)

With the WMS function to add map images from an external source or map server server like ArcGIS, Nearmap, Google Maps, QGIS, MapServer, ArcIMS, Bing Maps etc. Note that unlike Open Street Maps, these will be licensed separately to your system. If you have a license you can connect a layer or the Internet this way be specifying the source, layer, format and other dimensions such as Spatial Referencing System (SRS).

Web Map Tile Service (WMTS)

With the WTMS you can access pre-reendered map tiles over the Internet. This supports improved performance over WMS. Tiles are sourced via an external URL referenced using a source layer and matrix set.

XYZ Tile URL

Using this function, you can retrieve specific map tiles from an external source using:

• {z} zoom level

• {x} the column

• {y} the row of the tile

• {s} optional subdomain

• {extension} specifies the file type (e.g. .png, .jpg)

Access

To access Map Layers you will need to sign in with the System Admin & Data Entry role.

Locate the Map Layers register under Administration > Map Layers in the menu.

Administration

Administrators are able to set up and maintain Map Layers by:

• Adding new base or feature Map Layers as required

• Updating the settings including visibility

• Removing any unneeded Map Layers using the Inactive Status

Finding Map Layers

The register includes a number of features to assist in finding Map Layers:

• Datagrid view

• Filters including Active, Inactive or All

• Combination filters and search by most fields such as Name or Status

Filters

Filters help make management of Map Layers easier by focusing on specific groups of items on the datagrid.

Opening and Viewing

When viewing Map Layers, sections can be expanded to show information.

As each section is completed, new sections may show additional information.

Source Type is the main setting which opens up additional data fields for specifying the additional settings for each type.

Settings

Map Layers are divided into the following sections (sections may or may not appear depending on what information is entered, your permissions level, and what mode you're viewing):

Record Notes

When editing, record notes in the rich text field as you make changes which will appear in the Activity log.

Refer to: Recording Notes

General

The General section is used to name the map layer, to select the Source Type and specify any additional details required for that type.

Name

Use this to specify the name of the Map Layer. It is important to give it a name that end users will understand and that matches their expectation of what it represents as this name will appear for end users to select the layer.

Source Type

Use this field to select the Source Type. This will open additional data fields for using that type, some may be required.

Layer Settings

Workflow

Map Layers have only two statuses: Active and Inactive. Active Map Layers are enabled for use. Inactive lookups cannot be selected as options by users. They can be reactivated and readded if needed.

Updating

When updating Map Layers:

• Add notes on your edits in the Record Notes field

• Complete each section of the Settings and Layer Settings as required. Note that some options may open up new sections to complete.

• Do not attempt to change the Source Type you may lose data

Adding

// If sub-item leave out link below 
Mention if it can only be added through parent register
List any compatible parent registers

// Modify step one with the specific register button if there is one
If sub-item remove the drop down list option unless it can be added standalone
Focus any further instructions on required fields. 

1. From the register, in the New item menu select the New button (or drop down the list from any other register and select it)

2. Complete each section of the Settings as required.

3. Save

// Screenshot of add screen

Bulk Actions

The following additional bulk actions can be performed via the Actions menu:

// Remove any that aren't relevant
Add any that are specific to the register
Put them in the same order as the Bulk Action menu
Put extra instructions on a new line after the Refer to line

Importing

// Optional, if used, otherwise delete. 

A System Administrator can import in bulk via the Import system using the [Relevant Import] option.

Reports

// Optional, if used, otherwise delete. 

Reports available for [Register Item] include:

// Bullet list if multiple
Otherwise just mention the main one, you can optionally link to Built-in reports page