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GIS Views

GIS Views define saved map configurations that control which layers are shown, how data is sourced, and how that data can be shared internally or externally.

A view acts as a container for one or more GIS layers.

What Is a GIS View?​

A GIS View represents:

  • A specific map purpose (e.g. “Active Projects”, “Client Parcels”, “Utilities”)
  • A reusable configuration for internal dashboards
  • A shareable endpoint for external GIS clients (QGIS, ArcGIS, web maps)

Views do not contain data directly.
They define how data is assembled and displayed through layers.

Creating a GIS View​

GIS Views are created using the Create GIS View popup.

The same popup is used for:

  • Creating a new view
  • Editing an existing view

View Fields​

View Name (required)​

The primary identifier for the view.

  • Must be unique per tenant
  • Used in selection lists and URLs
  • Should describe the purpose of the map

Examples

  • Active Projects
  • Client Properties
  • Construction Status Map

Description (optional)​

A short internal note explaining what the view is used for.

  • Not used in URLs
  • Helps teams understand intent
  • Safe to change later

Share Scope​

Controls who can access this view.

Typical scopes include:

  • Private – Only visible to the creator
  • Organization – Visible to users in the tenant
  • Public / Shared – Can be accessed via URL

Share scope affects API exposure and OGC endpoints.

Base Map (optional)​

Defines the background map layer.

Examples:

  • Imagery
  • Streets
  • Topographic

This only affects the visual base — not data queries.

Editing Views​

Editing a view:

  • Does not modify the underlying data
  • Updates URLs and client configurations immediately
  • Preserves all attached layers

Relationship to Layers​

  • A view can contain many layers
  • Layers cannot exist without a view
  • Deleting a view removes all associated layers

Permissions & Visibility​

Access is controlled by:

  • Tenant permissions
  • Share scope configuration

Only authorized users can:

  • Create views
  • Edit view metadata
  • Delete views

Summary​

GIS Views are the top-level unit in the GIS system.

They define:

  • Map purpose
  • Sharing rules
  • Which layers appear together

Create views thoughtfully — they are often reused and externally consumed.