If you want to label your map you can normally achieve this without too much difficulty with GIS software such as ArcGIS, MapInfo or QGIS. All of these desktop GIS provide the facility to automatically place labels on the map by using data in the attribute table linked to a layer.
Various labeling functionality is available depending on your choice of GIS software. However, most desktop GIS now offer dynamic labeling options regarding text style, buffers, shadows and placement. Below is an example created with QGIS of a regional map of France showing most of these options.
Automatic labeling from data in the attribute table
Using the label facility rather than adding a text field is recommended as labels and text behave differently. Labels will remain near to the features they are associated with when you zoom in and out. By contrast, text does not react this way when you use zoom or pan controls in your map.
Ability to position or move labels is dependent on the functionality available in your GIS software. For instance, with ArcGIS you can turn a label to annotation and then you are able to move it to a new position. Alternatively you can use the Label tool to create individual labels which you can position on the map where you want them.
With MapInfo there is a facility to move labels to a new position. This new position means your label has been personalised but this is still in label format unlike ArcGIS where moving a dynamic label means first changing it to annotation text.
Finally, QGIS can only move labels if you have the X and Y co-ordinate information in your attribute table. With the latest version of QGIS the ABC labeling options include the ability to select the fields in the attribute table which contain the X and Y co-ordinate data. Within Layer labeling settings select Placement then in the Data defined section select the X and Y co-ordinate options. With these options activated you are then able to use the Move and Rotate functionality.
With MapInfo there is a facility to move labels to a new position. This new position means your label has been personalised but this is still in label format unlike ArcGIS where moving a dynamic label means first changing it to annotation text.
Finally, QGIS can only move labels if you have the X and Y co-ordinate information in your attribute table. With the latest version of QGIS the ABC labeling options include the ability to select the fields in the attribute table which contain the X and Y co-ordinate data. Within Layer labeling settings select Placement then in the Data defined section select the X and Y co-ordinate options. With these options activated you are then able to use the Move and Rotate functionality.
If you would like to further explore how GIS could help your organisation jps services offers one and two day training courses in QGIS, ArcGIS and MapInfo.
RSS Feed