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Data & Preparation

GeoNode makes it easy to upload, store, and prepare spatial data for sharing. This page introduces the formats, storage methods, and metadata options used in the manual.


Geospatial Data Handling

GeoNode supports uploading vector and raster datasets through a simple web form. Vector formats include Shapefiles, GeoJSON, CSV, KML, and KMZ. Raster data like satellite imagery is stored as GeoTIFF files.


Feature Vector Data Raster Data
Formats Shapefile, GeoJSON, CSV, KML, KMZ GeoTIFF
Storage Converted into geospatial DB tables Stored as GeoTIFF files
Examples Roads, boundaries, facilities Satellite imagery, aerial photos
Projection Handling Preserved and reprojected for map display Preserved in original projection
Map Usage Searchable, combinable with other layers Searchable, used as basemaps


GeoNode supports standardized metadata, particularly ISO 19139 and ISO 19115. You can:

  • Edit metadata manually after upload
  • Auto-fill metadata by uploading XML files (ISO, FGDC, Dublin Core)
  • Expose data via OGC APIs like CSW, WFS, and WMS


GeoNode also offers a built-in style editor to adjust layer appearance directly from the browser.


Data Preperation

This manual uses a prepackaged dataset of central Berlin, extracted from the BBBike OSM Extract Service. You can download the ready-to-use package here:


After unzipping, you’ll find the following folders:

  • 📁 Data – Shapefiles of Berlin’s city center, extracted from BBBike OSM.
  • 📁 Style – Predefined .sld files for symbolizing each layer.
  • 📁 Doc – Includes a README with information on the dataset and extract process.


💡
Want to use your own area? Head to the BBBike Extract Service to generate a custom dataset.


Next up: Now that your data is prepared, we’ll walk you through how to upload your datasets to GeoNode and get them ready for use on your map.