What is an Area of Responsibility (AoR)?

An Area of Responsibility (AoR) in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a map layer that defines the geographic boundaries of a project area. The area is typically represented as a polygon, a geospatial object used to capture and display spatial extents on a map. 


Why would you like to create an AoR map layer?

Creating an AoR map layer helps to visualise the geographic scope of your project and clearly identify which observations fall inside or outside the area of interest. Additionally, platforms such as Sensing Clues use the AoR layer to automatically gather geospatial data from satellites and open-source datasets, including roads, buildings, land use, and vegetation indices. This information can then be used to enhance prediction maps and analyses.


How to create an AoR map layer?

  1. Open the mapping tool: Navigate to https://geojson.io/.


  2. Locate your project area: Zoom to the location where you want to create your AoR. You can use the search button at the top-right of the map.


  3. Start drawing the polygon: Click the "Draw a polygon" button and place the first point at one corner of your project area.


  4. Complete the polygon: Add points clockwise along the boundaries of your project area until the entire area is captured. Close the polygon by clicking on the first point you created.


    A JSON representation of the polygon will appear on the right side of the screen, showing the coordinates that define your AoR.


  5. Download the map layer: Select "GeoJSON" from the "Save" menu at the top-left of the map to save your AoR.


  6. Rename the file: The downloaded file will appear in your computer’s download folder as "map.geojson". Rename it to AoR.geojson.

  7. Share your AoR: Send the file to hello@sensingclues.org (including your name and organisation) or upload it to your personal GeoJSON folder via the Sensing Clues Upload Service.