Vector tiles – editable authoritative map

A helping hand for the GIS user

Abstract

Vector Tiles represents a modern map technology that combines the strengths of raster and vector formats and enables both high performance and dynamic styling. The technology was introduced by Google around 2013, and has since been further developed to support flexible web map services.

In Denmark, the Danish Climate Data Agency has launched Vector Tiles – Skærmkort, which authoritatively displays data in four different styles. At the same time, users are given the opportunity to adapt the appearance of the map to specific needs.

There is still a need to spread awareness of the technology and the Vector Tiles – Skærmkort service, but we are heading in the right direction. Future development opportunities include, among other things, emergency solutions with offline data packages that can ensure access to map data even without the Internet.