Enhanced Visualization Features in Azure Maps for Power BI utilization

Question

Does anyone know if these features can be added as functionality to azure maps?

We are currently utilizing Azure Maps within Power BI for geospatial data visualization and have identified two key areas where additional functionality would enhance our data representation capabilities. We would like to request the implementation of line string visualization between points in the bubble layer setting of the visual and dynamic updating of reference layers as well as connecting geojson data to additional data.

 

Line String Visualization Between Bubble Layer Points:

Our current visualizations include a "bubble layer" representation of the latitude and longitude points where the location data field remains empty, this represents data points with multiple dots. However, we would like to visualize connections between these points effectively. We propose the addition of a line string feature that allows us to draw lines between the points in the bubble layer. This would enable us to represent lines between the data points visually which would be a great add-on to see which dots are connected. 

 

Dynamic Reference Layers and connecting GeoJson file to additional data:

The reference layer file we have added to our current solution includes data that is updated on a weekly basis but currently it only holds static data as it isnt possible to connect the data in the GeoJson file added to the reference layer data to the other data in the report. As mentioned the dataset for the geoJson file changes on a weekly basis, which means the reference layer is quickly outdated. We would like to request the capability to connect the reference layer to other data tables in power-bi to match for example year and week for the Microsoft Azure map to be updated. The system should allow for adjustments to the reference layer based on a time frame, such as weekly, to ensure the map reflects the most current data but also going back in time to give the correct representation of what conditions where in given week of a certain year.

 

These enhancements would significantly improve our ability to convey complex geospatial relationships and trends over time. They would add value to our analytics, enabling a richer and more informed decision-making processes. We believe that these features align with the goals of Azure Maps to provide comprehensive and dynamic mapping solutions. We appreciate your consideration of this request and look forward to the possibility of these features being integrated into future releases of Azure Maps.

Answer 1

Hi @Tobias Fauske

Thank you for expressing your thoughts.

Regarding the Line String Visualization Between Bubble Layer Points, we have included it in our backlog and will initiate investigations shortly. Unfortunately, I am unable to provide a specific ETA at this time. Could you kindly assist in providing additional details? This information will aid us in defining the Minimum Viable Product scope.

1. Could you share the use case or elaborate on the business problems that you aim to address with this feature?
2. To create the line string between bubbles, what prerequisites do you envision? For instance, are specific orders necessary, and how crucial are directions in this context?

In regards to to the Dynamic Reference Layer. While we have upcoming enhancements in the near future, incorporating a weekly reflection of changes in the connected dataset is not yet on the roadmap, I'll add this to our backlog. As an alternative, in addition to file uploads, we will soon introduce support for hosted GeoJson. This might provide a workaround for your needs, although it may not be as efficient as desired.

Update

This feature is not currently supported and will be included in the project backlog/roadmap.

Answer 2

As you likely have found this isn't a capability of the Azure Maps visual in Power BI currently. The closest thing that is currently available in Power BI would be the Flow map visual: https://appsource.microsoft.com/en-us/product/power-bi-visuals/WA104380901?tab=Overview There is also the route map visual: https://appsource.microsoft.com/en-us/product/power-bi-visuals/WA104380985?tab=Overview These are free custom visuals others have created.

I'm not sure if this capability would fit into the current Azure Maps visual architecture or if a separate visual for paths would make more sense. The Power BI team tends to prefer visuals to focus in on specific scenario/capability, and adding line support would result in a lot more fields and options in the visual that could make it overly complicated for the current user scenarios.

In any case, I'll pass this thread on to the team who manage the roadmap for the Azure Maps visual for future consideration.