Introduction
When printing from VertiGIS Studio Web or VertiGIS Studio Networks, arranging the legend inside a layout template can be challenging. Because the map content is defined by the web map used in the Studio Web app, the structure of the legend is unknown at design time.
Some maps may contain only a few layers and require a simple legend. Others may include dozens of layers, with classes, subtypes, or symbology variations. This can potentially result in hundreds of legend items.
This variability makes it difficult to design a single legend layout that works well for every map. This article describes two recommended approaches for handling legends in print templates.
Option 1: Use a Layout Package with a Separate Legend Page (Recommended)
For complex web maps or scenarios where the legend must remain complete and readable, we recommend placing the legend on a separate page using a layout package.
The benefits of this approach are:
- Automatic multi-column layout: The legend is arranged dynamically into multiple columns
- Automatic page overflow: If needed, the legend will continue onto additional pages
- Consistently readable results: Ideal for legal, regulatory, or compliance-driven printouts where all legend items must be visible
Option 2: Embed the Legend on the Same Page as the Map
If the legend must appear directly next to the map (e.g., in compact report layouts), the layout must be tailored to the expected number of legend items.
This option is only fully supported in ArcGIS Pro / Studio Desktop, which provides the complete layout capabilities needed for fine‑grained legend control. The VertiGIS Studio Printing Designer does not support all the legend configuration options that are available in ArcGIS Pro.
By selecting the legend element in ArcGIS Pro / Studio Desktop and accessing its properties, users can configure Legend Arrangement Options, including fitting strategies and layout behaviors.
These settings allow the legend to better fit within the reserved layout area. However, because the legend content is determined dynamically by the web map, the output may still vary.
Note: Even with careful configuration, this approach may produce inconsistent results depending on the complexity of the map (e.g., too much white space, cramped items, missing layers, or very small fonts). |
Publishing or Updating ArcGIS Pro Layouts
- With VertiGIS Studio Desktop:
- Without VertiGIS Studio Desktop:
Use the "Update Data" option on the layout item in ArcGIS Online or ArcGIS Enterprise to upload a newer version and overwrite the existing template without breaking the ArcGIS Pro configuration.
Comments
1 comment
Hi, in Gen 1 Printing with Print Templates legends for user-added shapefiles appeared in pdf outputs. However, with Gen 2 Printing with Layouts the shapefiles legends do not appear in the map legend.
Am I missing something in Layout design? Or is there a workaround? This is an important requirement for the majority of out 2000 or so users, the majority without rights to Publish services.
Please sign in to leave a comment.