Successful deployment depends on accurate map data. If your shapefiles or GeoJSON files are misconfigured, EarthRanger may display boundaries in the wrong location, lose attributes, or fail to render features at all. A quick validation step saves time and prevents errors later in your workflows.
Step 1. Verify Projection and File Format
- EarthRanger requires data in EPSG:4326 (WGS 84) projection.
- Supported formats are Shapefile (.shp) and GeoJSON (.geojson).
- If your file uses another projection, re-project it before import.
Step 2. Check the Attribute Table
- Each feature should include a clear Name field (string/label).
- Watch for:
- Blank or duplicate values.
- Special characters (unsupported in some cases).
- The attribute you choose will display in the Map Layers panel once imported.
- e.g.
Step 3. Confirm Display Category and Feature Class
- During import, assign the file to the correct Display Category and Feature Class.
- If your intended category or class does not exist, create it in EarthRanger Admin before re-importing.
Step 4. Validate Results in the Web Interface
- Go to the Map Layers panel in the EarthRanger web application.
- Expand the relevant Display Category and Feature Class.
- Confirm:
- Features appear at the correct location.
- Labels or attributes are displayed properly.
- Styling (colors, line thickness, icons) matches your Feature Class settings.
Step 5. Troubleshoot Common Issues
- Nothing displays on the map: check projection and geometry type.
- Features appear in the wrong location: verify the file is re-projected to EPSG:4326.
- Attributes missing or incorrect: confirm the attribute table includes a valid name field.