Sharing Maps in Google Earth

Gismaps Sistemas

Google Earth can be an excellent option for sharing maps with friends, clients, colleagues, managers, and other stakeholders.

The first step is to create a map using GIS software. In the example shown in Figure 1, a thematic map representing the population of Brazil’s Federative Units (States) was created using Gismaps Viewer.

Figure 1 – Thematic Map Created in Gismaps Viewer

Next, export the map to KML (Keyhole Markup Language), the file format used by Google Earth.

After exporting the map, open the KML file in Google Earth to visualize and share the results, as illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 2 – Thematic Map Displayed in Google Earth

Why Use Google Earth to Share Maps?

Google Earth offers several advantages for distributing geographic information:

  • Easy visualization of maps in a familiar environment.
  • Interactive navigation with zoom and pan capabilities.
  • Integration with satellite imagery and terrain data.
  • Simple sharing of geographic information through KML and KMZ files.
  • Accessibility for users with little or no GIS experience.
  • Support for presentations, reports, and collaborative projects.

Typical Applications

  • Business and management presentations.
  • Market analysis and sales territory visualization.
  • Environmental and land-use studies.
  • Infrastructure and logistics projects.
  • Educational and academic activities.
  • Public communication and stakeholder engagement.

KML Format

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is an XML-based file format designed to store and display geographic information in applications such as Google Earth. It can contain:

  • Points
  • Lines
    Polygons
  • Labels
  • Images
  • Descriptive information
  • Thematic mapping data

Because KML is widely supported, it is one of the most practical formats for sharing geographic information with non-technical audiences.

Additional Tutorials

More tutorials on map creation and GIS workflows are available at:

Gismaps Tutorials – https://www.gismaps.com.br/en/tutoriais/

By exporting thematic maps to KML and viewing them in Google Earth, organizations can transform GIS analyses into interactive visual products that are easy to distribute, understand, and present to decision-makers.