Bringing Data into Atlas

Bringing Data into Atlas

Adding data is the foundation of building maps in Atlas. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to upload your own data, use shared datasets, and connect to external sources like WMS/WMTS.

🗺️ Understanding Spatial Data

Spatial data in Atlas falls into two main types:

Vector Data

• Represents precise features like:
  • Points: Locations (e.g., store addresses).
  • Lines: Roads, rivers, or pipelines.
  • Polygons: Boundaries or zones (e.g., countries or parks).
• Formats: Common vector formats include GeoJSON, Shapefile, and CSV.

Raster Data

• Grid-based data, often used for:
  • Satellite Images: Land cover or vegetation.
  • Heatmaps: Density visualizations (e.g., population).
  • Elevation Models: Terrain height or underwater topography.
• Formats: Examples include TIFF, PNG, and JPEG.

Each type serves different purposes, so knowing your data type helps you choose the right tools in Atlas.

📥 Uploading Your Own Data

1. Click the Add Data Button

   • Located in the top-left corner of the interface.

2. Upload a File

   • Drag and drop files like CSV, GeoJSON, or TIFF, or browse your computer.
   • Example: Upload a dataset of apartment locations in Denmark.

3. Preview and Style

   • Once uploaded, preview the data on your map and adjust basic styling for clarity.

🗂️ Using Shared Datasets

Shared datasets are reusable files accessible across your workspace. Perfect for collaborative projects.

• Access from the Atlas Dashboard
  • Navigate to the Shared Datasets section to browse available files.
• Import to Your Project
  • Select a shared dataset (e.g., city boundaries or demographic data) and load it into your map.

🌐 Connecting External Sources

Atlas integrates with external services to bring in live data:

• WMS/WMTS

  • Use Web Map Service (WMS) or Web Map Tile Service (WMTS) to access live map tiles or geospatial data from external servers.
  • Example: Add a WMS layer for weather data or topographic maps.

• Google Sheets

  • Connect live datasets from Google Sheets for dynamic updates.
  • Example: Link a spreadsheet containing property listings, allowing you to make changes in Google Sheets and see them automatically reflected on your map.

🚀 Pro Tip: Combine Data Sources

Mix and match data from multiple sources to create richer, more detailed maps. For example:

• Combine a shared dataset of rental prices with WMS-based weather data for deeper insights.

Let’s start building something amazing!