Overview

Shape layers are used to highlight and gather data from specific areas of interest. They filter out data outside the layer, displaying only what is within the shape layer. You can create multiple shape layers within a map interface.

Shape layers can be used in several ways:

1. Highlight Areas of Interest: Shape layers can emphasize specific regions on the map, making it easier to focus on areas that are important for your analysis.

2. Filter Data: By creating shape layers, you can filter out data outside the selected area, allowing you to view and analyze only the data within the shape layer.

3. Data Analysis: Shape layers can help in segmenting data based on geographic boundaries, facilitating detailed analysis of different regions.

4. Custom Visualizations: You can create multiple shape layers to build complex visualizations, helping to represent various aspects of your data.

5. Collaboration: Shape layers make it easier for team members to understand and discuss specific areas of interest on the map.

6. Presentation: Use shape layers to create clear and focused presentations, highlighting key data points and areas for stakeholders.

How To Use Shape Layers

Shape layers should be used effectively by following these suggestions:

1. Define Clear Objectives: Before creating shape layers, determine the specific goals you want to achieve, such as highlighting areas of interest or filtering data.

2. Accurate Boundaries: Ensure that the shape layers accurately represent the geographic areas you are interested in. Precision is crucial for reliable analysis and visualization.

3. Relevant Data: Use shape layers to focus on relevant data within the defined area. Filter out unnecessary data outside the shape layer to avoid clutter and improve clarity.

4. Multiple Layers: Create multiple shape layers if your analysis requires segmentation of different regions or comparison between various areas. This allows for more detailed and comprehensive insights.

5. Consistent Styling: Maintain a consistent style for shape layers to ensure visual coherence. Use distinct colors or patterns to differentiate between multiple layers.

6. Collaboration: Use shape layers to facilitate collaboration with team members. Clearly defined layers help in discussing and understanding specific areas of interest.

7. Visualization: Leverage shape layers to enhance visual storytelling. Highlight key areas and data points to create compelling presentations for stakeholders.

8. Regular Updates: Keep shape layers updated with the latest data to ensure accuracy and relevance in your analysis and visualizations.

Types of Shape Layers

Polygon

A polygon as a shape layer is a closed, multi-sided geometric figure used on a map interface to define and highlight a specific area of interest. It is created by connecting a series of straight lines that enclose a space, forming a boundary that can be customized to fit the desired region precisely. Polygons can vary in shape and size, from simple triangles and rectangles to complex, irregular shapes.

Radius

A radius as a shape layer is a circular area on a map that is defined by a central point and extends outward to a specified distance. This type of shape layer is useful for highlighting and analyzing data within a defined circular region, based on a central location.

Square

A square as a shape layer is a four-sided, equal-length geometric figure on a map that defines a specific area of interest. It is created by specifying a central point and extending equal distances in four directions to form a square boundary. This type of shape layer is useful for highlighting and analyzing data within a uniform square region.

Create Shape Layers

You can create a shape layer in your map interface with the create shape tool located in the top centre of the map interface. For a detailed walkthrough on creating a shape layer, please refer to this guide.