Mapworks User Guide

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Layer References ​

Overview ​

Layers in Mapworks exist within a hierarchy of resources:

Connection → Dataset → Layer → Map

Each layer has a parent Dataset that provides its data, and can be used in multiple Maps. Understanding these relationships helps you:

  • Navigate between related resources
  • Understand what will be affected when modifying a layer
  • Track where a layer is being used

Viewing the Parent Dataset ​

Every layer (except Markup Layers and temporary WMS layers) is associated with a parent Dataset.

To navigate to the parent dataset from a map: ​

  1. In the layer tree, right-click the layer
  2. Click View Dataset

This will go to the dataset in Mapworks UI where you can view connection information, field configuration, and other dataset settings.

Parent Dataset

To view parent dataset in Mapworks UI: ​

  1. Go to Mapworks UI
  2. Click the Layers Tab and search for the desired layer
  3. Click on the parent dataset

Parent Dataset

Viewing Maps Using This Layer ​

A single layer can be added to multiple maps. This is useful for maintaining consistent styling and configuration across different map views.

To view which maps use a layer: ​

  1. Go to Mapworks UI
  2. Click the Layers Tab and search for the desired layer
  3. If the layer is included in at least one map, a button will display the number of maps.

Maps using Layer

  1. Click the Maps button to view a list of all maps that include this layer.

💡 Tip

Before modifying a shared layer's styling or configuration, check which maps use it to understand the impact of your changes.

Understanding Layer Dependencies ​

When working with layers, it's important to understand the dependency chain:

If you modify...It affects...
ConnectionAll datasets using that connection, and all their layers
DatasetAll layers using that dataset
Layer styling (Save to Layer)Maps where the layer styling has been overridden are not affected. Maps where the layer was left unchanged will reflect the new saved styling
Layer styling in a mapOnly that map (layer configurations can be overridden per-map)

⚠️ Warning

When a layer is deleted, any maps that included it will show the layer as unavailable. Always check layer references before deleting.

From Layer to Dataset ​

  1. Navigate to the layer
  2. Click on the parent dataset

Parent Dataset

From Layer to Connection ​

  1. Navigate to the parent dataset
  2. Click on the parent connection

Parent Dataset

From Dataset to Layers ​

  1. Navigate to the desired dataset
  2. Click the Layers button to view a list of all layers created from this dataset.

Dataset Child Layers

From Map to Layers ​

  • The layer tree in any open map shows all layers included in that map

Parent Dataset