How to Add Reference Layer in Azure Maps Power BI Visual?

Azure Map Core Visual for Power BI now allows for interactive, dynamic reference layers, and this blog explains how. Through this blog, Spiral Mantra (the best data analytics company) walks you through the process of adding or configuring dynamic reference layers in the Azure Map core visual for Power BI.
Before that, let’s explore what are dynamic reference layers in Azure Map for Power BI Visual.
The term Azure Map Power BI Visual has quickly become so prevalent, as it offers comprehensive Power BI mapping features where users can combine the features of maps into the Master Mapping visual, allowing Azure to add reference layers such as GeoJSON, ShapeFile, KML, or CSV (stored via Power BI or URL) and link it dynamically to your data! Reference Layer in Azure Maps Power BI Visual

Source: Microsoft

Configure Reference Layers in Azure Maps for Power BI: Key Steps

Begin with inserting Azure Map into the report screen.
Adds a data field by navigating from the data model. The data model must be integrated into the reference layer and the location field. With this step, Power BI automatically detects the shapes and values of the build disk location field based on the name property specified in the reference layer file.
Turn off the bubble layer under the format options (this will automatically turn on when the field is added to the location).
Navigate under the Format options to upload or establish a connection to a spatial file.
Use formatting and tooltips to execute the final step!

Dynamic Reference Layers in Azure Maps: Key Specifications

Using a reference layer on Azure Maps allows you to deposit additional data on your maps to provide broader context and deeper insights. Whether you visualize your sales area, delivery route, or demographic data, the technology can help you see patterns and relationships more clearly.
Apart from that, it supports

CSV File Support

Now you can use GeoJSON in your CSV file as an information source for your reference layer to integrate data from different sources without converting it to other formats. If your existing information is in CSV format, you don't have to spend time converting it to other spatial files. Simply upload the CSV file, and it is ready to use!

Improved Adaptation

Directly adjust the appearance of points, lines, and polygons in the Power BI format area. Before that, you had to define the color and width of the reference shift file and add complexity. With the latest update, now you can adjust these settings in Power BI, saving time and reducing errors. This means that maps can be tailored to your branding or specific visualization requirements.

Dynamic URL Source

Use conditional formatting to provide a dynamic URL, so that it can be modified based on the data condition. This function is best for scenarios where the reference layer must be dynamic. Additionally, visualization of different data records based on user selection is also added. For example, depending on the category you select, you can change the format to display different product performances across all areas and provide more interactive and more prominent visualization.
These improvements make Azure Maps even more versatile and powerful and help you easily create compelling and beneficial visualizations.

Understanding the Data-Bound Reference Layer

The Data-Bound Reference Layer is an extension that uses the user to bind data directly to a custom deposit in Azure Visual. Imagine adding a multidimensional perspective to your Power BI, thus supporting data from several sources, such as ShapeFiles, GeoJSON, and many other data records, allowing users to create fully tunable data control cards that render polygons based on live data.
Standard data points for Power BI visuals highlight location, but the data-bound platform continues to visualize additional findings such as demographic boundaries, sales areas, and high-funded zones.
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