Exploring the Information

In this, the final section of the tutorial, you will learn how to explore the map information by working with the available map layers.

Map Switcher

Hopefully you've had a chance to take a look at GIS Concepts where we discussed layers.

Located in the top right of the mapping application you will see a collection of buttons that allows you to easily toggle the available map layers. These layers can be broken down into two categories, base data and operational data. We have included a few different types of base data for you to choose from in the Easy Map viewer. A simple click on the right button bar will allow you to switch between Streets, Aerial, Topographical and Hybrid views.

In order to view operational data use the “More” button and select the layer of choice.

TIP: If the chosen operational layer does not turn on right away it could be because it is not available to be viewed at the current map scale. To resolve this issue simply zoom in or out until the layer turns on.

Definitions:

Base Data:
Base data consists of common mapping features that we feel should be turned on by default at all times. An example of the features you will commonly see presented as base data are major roads, minor roads, lakes, rivers and the county boundary.

Operational Data:
Operational data consists of more specific mapping data that you may only be interested in viewing. Some examples of the operational layers you will find are Provincial Park Lands, Building Footprints, Municipal Offices, Schools and Police stations.

Showing and Hiding Layers

By clicking the “More” (see Figure 1) button you will see a list of the operational layers available to you. If you find a layer of interest and it is not turned on, simply select the checkbox on the left of its title to turn it on. If you no longer wish to view this layer uncheck the checkbox to remove it from the current view.

There may be cases where you will not see the data you have turned on immediately. Some layers have been configured to only be turned on at a specific scale range because it is unreadable at small or large scales. If you find this is happening try zooming into a location you expect to see the data until it appears.

Viewing the Map Legend

One of the tools (tools will be discussed in more detail later) available to you is the map legend. This will allow you to view the symbology related to the operational layers you have turned on and will assist with identifying the type of feature presented on the map. In order to view the maps legend simply click the legend icon [Figure 2] and a dialog will open containing the symbology of the operational layers turned on. If nothing shows up, ensure you have a few operational layers turned on under the “More” list of layers.

Congratulations! You've finished the basic tutorial. Pretty painless, wasn't it?

While we've only scratched the surface of what can be done with web-based GIS during this basic tutorial, it is our hope that we've perhaps opened your eyes to the power of this technology. Now, we encourage you to start working with the map viewer and put to use the information we've shared. While we've shown you the basics and we hope you continue to read on and explore the application to its entirety.

If you decided to continue the tutorial we will introduce you to the tools available and how you can use them to find information.

> I want to learn about more advanced the tools and capabilities