Before the release of IBM Cognos Analytics 11 R8 on November 3rd 2018, the analytics community has been limited to the map-able data of highlighting named regions (populate polygons) or named points. We now have more out-of-the-box Mapbox abilities. Specifically, users can create maps with latitude and longitude data points. This maps feature was added to the existing maps visualization so that users can create them easily. Below is a step by step on how to create a map visualization using the new R8 functionality with further instruction on how to simulate custom polygons.
Latitude Longitude Map
To begin with, open the Report tool.
Next, select a Blank template or whichever you’d prefer.
Then, use the + in the middle of the work area to add a data container.
From the options, select a Visualizations.
the user will want to search for maps and select the Map from the middle pane and click OK.
Add the source of data with Latitude and Longitude data.
In the “Region” drop down in the upper right corner for the map visualization, the user should select Latitude/Longitude.
Bring in the Latitude and Longitude into the Latitude and Longitude drop zones, respectively.
Users can optinally label each position by populating the Label drop zone.
Add a measurable item into the color and/or size to finalize the set up.
Adjust the size of the chart as needed.
Run the report in HTML
Simulating Custom Polygons (Optional)
If the latitude and longitude points are associated with a region, we can simulate using these as custom polygons on the map.
Go to the Toolbox and drag a value prompt into the work area.
Follow the prompts to add a prompted Region value based on the data.
Change the prompt to auto submit yes.
Run the report as HTML.
Change the prompt to a region.
Now, the report not only filters data, but focuses on the data on the map. In affect, this simulates a custom polygon.
Check out the video of how this map was made here or other blog post.
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