You will learn how to create a customized Google Basemap using Snazzy Maps.

Last updated: April 6, 2020


Prerequisites

  • Access to the full MapGeo Console


Process:

Using Snazzy Maps allows you to customize Google basemaps to use on MapGeo. You are able to control the symbology of the basemap, particularly labeling on the basemap. To begin, enter the specific dataset you would like to add the customized Google basemap on the MapGeo Console:

  • Select the “Map” tab from the left-hand menu.

  • Select the “Layers” tab from the “Map” menu.

  • Select “Edit” for the layer called “Google Labels.” This layer will be automatically configured with your MapGeo implementation. 

  • The “Styles” section will have a json code that specifies the customizations to the Google basemap. We will edit this json style using Snazzy Maps.

  • Copy the entire json from the “Styles” section.

  • From below the “Styles” section, open the “Snazzy Maps” hyperlink in a new tab. 

  • Select “JSON Import” from the initial screen on Snazzy Maps. 

  • Paste in the json style you copied from the MapGeo Console and hit “Apply.”

  • This will bring up a new screen with the basemap from your json style. You can edit its symbology by choosing “Features” to edit and “Elements” within those features. The basemap in the right-hand side live updates so you will be able to see your changes as you make them.

  • Once you are satisfied with your customizations, select the “View Code” button. 

  • Copy that new json style.

  • Return to the Layers section of the MapGeo console.

  • Create a new Layer and choose the “Google” type.

  • Select “roadmap” from the “Map Type” dropdown.

  • Paste in the json style you copied from Snazzy Maps and hit “Submit.”

  • You can now use this layer in the Basemaps section of the Console.


Helpful Hints

  • Remember that the custom features on the Google basemaps may not be available everywhere, particularly in smaller towns.

  • The initial screen you enter from the hyperlink for Snazzy Maps on MapGeo only is available upon your first visit to the site. If you need to access it again, open an Incognito Window and select the hyperlink again.

  • Please view the help video for this configuration.