Creating a Map in Visualize

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Article Goal

Learn how to create a Choropleth Map in Visualize, including binding attributes, formatting values, and switching between different aggregation methods like Sum and Max.

What Is a Choropleth Map?

A Choropleth Map is a data visualization that uses geographic regions—such as states or provinces—and shades them according to data values. By binding fields to map attributes and values, you can quickly spot patterns or variations across regions.

Use Case: You can compare Shipping Fees by State to see which regions have higher or lower costs. This makes it easier to analyze logistics performance geographically.

Why Create a Map?

• Allows users to visualize data by geographic region

• Provides immediate insights into spatial trends

• Supports multiple value metrics for flexible analysis

Note: Attribute binding must match the type of regional data (e.g., Postal for state abbreviations). Incorrect binding can cause map data not to display.

Where Are Maps Created?

Maps are created inside the Visualize Designer in VDM. From here, you can insert the Choropleth Map element, assign attribute and value fields, and adjust formatting.

Download Sample

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Steps to Create a Map

Step 1: Open Visualize Designer

Launch VDM and click Visualize Designer from the main screen.

Step 2: Add a Choropleth Map

Click the Choropleth Map icon to insert a new Map element into your dashboard.

Step 3: Select Design Settings

• Open the Design tab under Choropleth Map Tools.

• Set the Default Map (e.g., USA).

Step 4: Assign Attributes

Drag the regional field (e.g., Region) into the Attribute box.

Click the Attribute Binding button and set the binding to Postal.

Step 5: Assign Values

• Drag the numeric field (e.g., Freight) into the Value box.

• Optional - Format the field:

  • Set Format Type to Currency

  • Set Unit to Ones

  • Set Precision to 0

  • Enable Include group separator

Tip: Switching between aggregations can highlight both overall totals and peak values across regions, giving multiple insights from a single map.

Example Output

The example below shows a USA Choropleth Map with states shaded by Freight totals (Sum).

Article Summary

Creating a Choropleth Map in Visualize lets you combine geographic regions with numeric data, such as Shipping Fees by State. By assigning attributes and values, applying formatting, and toggling between aggregation types, you can uncover spatial trends at a glance. This makes maps ideal for analyzing logistics, sales regions, or any data with a geographic component.

Use Case: A logistics manager can compare freight or shipping fees by state, toggling between Sum and Max values to see both overall cost distribution and peak expense regions.