Shapefile to Map Tool for Mining Projects

Exploration Maps turns Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, and CSV data into clean mineral exploration maps — a fast way to get a presentation-ready output when you already have the files but do not want to work in full GIS software.

Uploading Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, and CSV data

If you already have exploration data as files, you can import it directly. Exploration Maps reads Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, and CSV. CSV files with coordinate columns are handled with a column mapper so latitude and longitude are assigned correctly. Most exploration datasets import without manual conversion.

Converting raw files into clean visual maps

Imported files usually look raw — default colours, no labels, no layout. Tag each layer by role (claims, drillholes, targets) to apply sensible styling, then the map is fit to your data automatically. The point of this tool is the step that desktop GIS makes slow: getting from a valid file to a clean visual quickly.

Styling layers

Adjust stroke and fill colours, opacity, and labels per layer. Use separate layers for separate claim blocks or sample types so each appears distinctly in the legend. Reduce the opacity on context layers like roads and water so your main data stays dominant.

Adding labels and project context

Add claim and feature labels, a title block with the project name and date, a north arrow, and a scale bar. Optional context overlays place the data in its regional and infrastructure setting so the map reads on its own.

Exporting maps for presentations and reports

Export a PNG for slides and websites or a PDF for print-ready report figures, using a 16:9 landscape ratio for decks or a letter or A4 page for technical reports.

For users who do not want to work in full GIS software

Desktop GIS is the right tool for heavy analysis, but it is overkill when you simply need a clean figure from data you already have. This tool focuses on presentation output. For the broader workflow, see mining exploration map software.