Feature Layer
A GIS layer that displays and allows analysis of features from a feature class, enabling visualization and spatial queries (standard GIS usage).
How does a Feature Layer work?
Using information from a feature class or related dataset, a feature layer creates and shows a collection of geographic features on a map, such as buildings, roads, rivers, or land parcels. Users can query, filter, symbolize, or edit the geometry (location and shape) and attribute information (descriptive details) of each feature in the layer. GIS users can visualize trends, do spatial analysis, and interact with particular features by using feature layers. For example, they can click on a building to view its height or zoning type. These layers can be included in web maps and applications and kept locally or viewed online. Feature layers are potent tools for decision-making and map-based storytelling because they are dynamic and may be stylized, labeled, and filtered to display only pertinent information. To put it briefly, a feature layer links spatial features with their properties in an interactive map context, bringing geographic data to life.
Related Keywords
A feature class on a map is represented visually by a GIS feature layer. It shows geographic features and their properties, such as points, lines, or polygons. In GIS applications, feature layers let users view, examine, and work with spatial data.
Geographic features such as points, lines, or polygons with related properties are represented by an ArcGIS Feature Layer. For mapping and GIS projects, it enables users to view, query, and analyse spatial data.
A shapefile is a static, file-based format for storing and exchanging geographical data, whereas a feature layer is a dynamic, service-based GIS layer that facilitates real-time updates and queries.
In ArcGIS, points, lines, or polygons with properties are represented by a feature layer. It can be made by defining a new layer or importing spatial data, selecting fields, spatial reference, and geometry type, and then using it for mapping, analysis, and sharing.