Esri Print Task vs. Export Web Map: Understanding the Differences
Creating high-quality maps for sharing and reporting is essential in GIS. Two popular options in ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Pro are Print Task and Export Web Map. While both aim to produce map outputs, they differ in their functionalities and intended purposes. This article breaks down the key distinctions between these tools, helping you choose the best method for your needs.
Scenario and Code Examples
Let's imagine you have a web map showcasing the distribution of parks in a city. You want to create a visually appealing report with your map for a presentation.
Print Task:
// Assuming you have a map object named 'map'
var printTask = new esri.tasks.PrintTask("https://utility.arcgis.com/usrsvcs/servers/YOUR_SERVER_URL/rest/services/Utilities/PrintingTools/GPServer/Export%20Web%20Map%20Task");
var params = new esri.tasks.PrintParameters();
params.map = map;
params.outSpatialReference = map.spatialReference;
params.layoutOptions = {
"titleText": "Parks in the City",
"authorText": "Your Name"
};
printTask.execute(params, function(response){
window.open(response.url);
});
Export Web Map:
// Assuming you have a map object named 'map'
var exportWebMap = new esri.tasks.ExportWebMapTask("https://utility.arcgis.com/usrsvcs/servers/YOUR_SERVER_URL/rest/services/Utilities/PrintingTools/GPServer/Export%20Web%20Map%20Task");
var params = new esri.tasks.ExportWebMapParameters();
params.map = map;
params.format = "png";
params.width = 800;
params.height = 600;
exportWebMap.execute(params, function(response){
window.open(response.url);
});
Key Differences:
| Feature | Print Task | Export Web Map |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Create printable layouts with title, legend, and scale bar | Generate a static image of the web map |
| Output | PDF, PNG, JPEG | PNG, JPEG |
| Customization | High level of layout customization (titles, legends, scale bars, etc.) | Limited customization (size, format) |
| Complexity | More complex setup and configuration | Simpler to use and configure |
| Collaboration | Designed for sharing and collaboration | Primarily for individual use |
Insights:
-
Print Task is ideal for creating professional-looking maps for reports, presentations, and print media. It provides a flexible framework for incorporating titles, legends, scale bars, and other map elements, enhancing readability and clarity.
-
Export Web Map is suitable for capturing a snapshot of your web map. It's straightforward for generating images for quick sharing or embedding in websites.
Choosing the Right Tool:
Choose Print Task when:
- You need a high-quality printable map with custom layout elements.
- You intend to share the map with others.
- You require precise control over the map's appearance.
Choose Export Web Map when:
- You need a simple, quick way to capture a visual representation of your map.
- You are primarily using the image for individual use or embedding in a website.
- You don't require advanced layout customization.
Conclusion:
Understanding the difference between Esri Print Task and Export Web Map empowers you to choose the right tool for your map creation needs. Print Task delivers professional layouts for sharing and printing, while Export Web Map provides a simplified way to capture static images. By choosing the right tool, you can efficiently produce high-quality map outputs tailored to your specific requirements.
