Quick Start

Working with maps in eRAMS is easy and intuitive. Our platform provides automated access to several publicly available datasets and geospatial layers from a variety of open-source providers. We offer numerous mapping and geospatial analysis tools for common operations and geoprocessing needs. Users can create geospatially enabled webpages with options to include time series information.

Here you will find introductory materials to get familiarized with the fundamental components of our platform to create maps and begin working with basic GIS features.

eRAMS GIS Interface

Make a Map

To get the greatest utility and benefit from our GIS services first create a free account and then follow the simple workflow below to get started making maps and sharing information.

Create a new map canvas by entering the GIS Analysis interface or login to your eRAMS account and select “GIS/Analysis” from the top menu.

1. Select an area of interest

Using the Pan and Zoom tools in the map menu bar or type an address or location into the Zoom to search box and click Go to choose an area to explore.

2. Choose base layer

These layers form a base over which new layers can be added. Maps with physical elements, street networks, satellite views, hydrology, and shaded relief are all available as base layers.

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3. Add new layers

Select from publicly-sourced layers or add/create new data layers from other geospatial sources. Layer features can be identified and selected/unselected using query tools from the menu bar and/or by clicking on the layer of interest. Feature attributes in user and newly-created project layers can be symbolized. A map legend can also be added and map settings such as units can be defined under the Settings tab.

To learn more about adding and manipulating new layers from multiple data sources, including from tables, select from the options below:

4. Add symbology and placemarks

Draw placemarks and customized symbology to your map to highlight features. Points, lines, and polygons can all be added to using the placemarks tool in the map menu bar.

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5. Analyze data

eRAMS GIS can perform basic and sophisticated geoanalysis. The Map Tools icon in the map menu bar provides many options including measurement operations, geoprocessing of feature classes and rasters, geostatistical operations, data extraction from government repositories, heads-up digitizing and editing, application of decision analysis tools, network analysis capabilities, and built in functions for terrain and hydrological analysis.

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6. Format, save, and share your map

Using the Create Map Layout tool in the map menu bar give your map a title and other metadata, and select which layers to include in the map legend. Map templates allow for additional customization of your print layout. The map can be printed directly from your browser, or as a registered eRAMS user, you can save and share your maps and data with others through group collaboration and/or shared links.

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