Map layers
Map layers offer a convenient way of visualising static 2D information covering a larger area like ortho images, pipelines, cables or other infrastructure. Layers are uploaded by GISGRO team and these are often generated from DWG/DNG -files. Map layer information can also be integrated (WMS/AIS)!
Open full details of AIS vessels by clicking individual vessels from the map
Open Layers menu from the right side buttons and select the information you want to have visible on the map by clicking. Map layers can be organised into folders by GISGRO team and with folders you can set all the layers included visible or hidden with one click! You can also set the base map as LIGHT/DARK/SATELLITE/NONE. Note that if the map layer you are viewing is light colored it will stand out better with the dark backround selected! If the map layer transparency feature has been activated for your account, you can also edit this using the silder. When you close the Layers menu using the x icon the selected layers stay visible.
If you are interested in the possibility to adjust map layer transparency please contact support!
When deciding should some data be uploaded as a map layer or asset the way you plan on utilising the data is key. If you would like to attach information like pictures, documents and reminders and link defects and contracts for example to the data this would need to be added as asset. If the main use case would be just to have information easily available for users to view on the map via desktop and mobile layers work well for this! If there is a need to update and make changes to the data often then assets are more flexible type of data since these can be managed by users themselves via GISGRO without assistance from our team.
Ortho images are aerial photographs that have been corrected to align precisely with real-world coordinates. Ortho images are geometrically accurate, meaning they can be used just like a map for measurements, tracing, and analysis. They provide a clear, reliable base layer for all spatial data in GIS applications like GISGRO. Ortho images are typically captured via drones or aircraft and processed to remove distortions caused by terrain and camera perspective. The result is a high-resolution, map-accurate visual of the port environment—from quay edges to warehouses.
In GISGRO, ortho images unlock a wide range of powerful tools for digitizing port infrastructure and managing it efficiently. You can:
Trace and digitize assets: Easily draw and define port features such as bollards, fenders, light masts, pipelines, rail tracks, quay walls, buildings, storage areas, and more directly on the image.
Plan maintenance and track defects: Include digitized elements in maintenance plans, assign inspection intervals, and record defects or repairs visually on the map. This supports proactive maintenance and clearer documentation.
Link supporting documentation: Attach manuals, drawings, inspection reports, or contracts by linking assets to SharePoint or other document management systems.
Integrate with Contract management: Combine spatial data with contract information to generate availability maps of warehouses, yards, and lease areas. This makes asset usage transparent and improves planning and marketing of port spaces.
Improve collaboration and decision-making: With all spatial and asset data connected in GISGRO, teams can work from the same source of truth, reducing silos and increasing operational clarity.
Open full details of AIS vessels by clicking individual vessels from the map
View map layers
Open Layers menu from the right side buttons and select the information you want to have visible on the map by clicking. Map layers can be organised into folders by GISGRO team and with folders you can set all the layers included visible or hidden with one click! You can also set the base map as LIGHT/DARK/SATELLITE/NONE. Note that if the map layer you are viewing is light colored it will stand out better with the dark backround selected! If the map layer transparency feature has been activated for your account, you can also edit this using the silder. When you close the Layers menu using the x icon the selected layers stay visible.
If you are interested in the possibility to adjust map layer transparency please contact support!
Assets vs Map layers
When deciding should some data be uploaded as a map layer or asset the way you plan on utilising the data is key. If you would like to attach information like pictures, documents and reminders and link defects and contracts for example to the data this would need to be added as asset. If the main use case would be just to have information easily available for users to view on the map via desktop and mobile layers work well for this! If there is a need to update and make changes to the data often then assets are more flexible type of data since these can be managed by users themselves via GISGRO without assistance from our team.
Ortho Images – A Foundation for Smart Port Management
Ortho images are aerial photographs that have been corrected to align precisely with real-world coordinates. Ortho images are geometrically accurate, meaning they can be used just like a map for measurements, tracing, and analysis. They provide a clear, reliable base layer for all spatial data in GIS applications like GISGRO. Ortho images are typically captured via drones or aircraft and processed to remove distortions caused by terrain and camera perspective. The result is a high-resolution, map-accurate visual of the port environment—from quay edges to warehouses.
Using ortho images in GISGRO for port digitization
In GISGRO, ortho images unlock a wide range of powerful tools for digitizing port infrastructure and managing it efficiently. You can:
Trace and digitize assets: Easily draw and define port features such as bollards, fenders, light masts, pipelines, rail tracks, quay walls, buildings, storage areas, and more directly on the image.
Plan maintenance and track defects: Include digitized elements in maintenance plans, assign inspection intervals, and record defects or repairs visually on the map. This supports proactive maintenance and clearer documentation.
Link supporting documentation: Attach manuals, drawings, inspection reports, or contracts by linking assets to SharePoint or other document management systems.
Integrate with Contract management: Combine spatial data with contract information to generate availability maps of warehouses, yards, and lease areas. This makes asset usage transparent and improves planning and marketing of port spaces.
Improve collaboration and decision-making: With all spatial and asset data connected in GISGRO, teams can work from the same source of truth, reducing silos and increasing operational clarity.
Updated on: 20/05/2025
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