Why do I have a "Map not referenced" message on my map?

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When you import a custom map into the Avenza Maps app, the app will extract, tile, and process it. During this process, the app will attempt to read any geographic information associated/embedded in the map. 

However, if the geographic information is absent, corrupted, or missing vital metadata it can throw the "Map not referenced" message. Other possible causes could be custom/rare coordinate systems that are not supported by the app. For example, when the GDA 2020 coordinate system was released we did not have immediate support for it within the app. 

The fix for this is to georeference the map so the app can read it. Georeferencing is essentially assigning known lat/long, UTM, or another type of geographic information and associating with a specific location on an image. Then once it is assigned it can be read by other programs and reference your location on the map. 

Please note, map files must be properly georeferenced prior to importing into the Avenza Maps app. For guidance on supported file types for custom map import, please see the following link: Importing maps from custom locations

For example, the image below outlines a process of georeferencing. If you know the geographic information where the crosshairs are you can assign it a location for the app to read.

For easy georeferencing we have our own desktop software, Geographic Imager, that is a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop, for more information please click HERE.

Comments

4 comments

Date Votes
  • Kirk Barrett

    Expecting a user to own photoshop and use your plug-in to georeference is lame customer service.

    you should provide a georeference ability in the app!  Custom Maps has that and its produced and supported by a single person.   

     

     

     

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  • Lauren T

    I agree with Kirk, the georeferencing in Custom Maps is user friendly and Avenza's  is not. I was considering getting Avenza pro until I realized I wouldn't be able to georeference my maps.  

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  • Kingsley Galamo

    How can I georeference my maps?

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  • Andy

    Georeferencing a map typically requires additional software and some basic GIS skills. Rest assured, georeferencing is not a difficult task and is quite beginner friendly.
     
    I will provide some recommendations and additional resources below on how to georeference your maps.
     
    Software Recommendations for Georeferencing:

    • We have an excellent software called Geographic Imager, a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop that supports georeferencing! If you're interested in getting a Geographic Imager license you can get started with a free trial! I'll provide you with a link to get started.
    • Geographic Imager Trial
    • If you're looking for a free alternative you can you can also check out QGIS, which is a free and open-sourced GIS software.
    • Since QGIS is open-sourced and free, there are many tutorials online that detail how to georeference a map

    Additional Resources:

    If you have any further questions or concerns, you can always reach out to us at support@avenza.com! 

    Best,

    ​Andy

    Support Specialist

    Avenza Systems

     

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