TABLE OF CONTENTS
Boundaries can be used to analyze the information in a data table and view the results on the map. The three main functions used with boundaries include:
- Template Overlay: Denote a special attribute about an area using colors and patterns
- Statistics Calculation: Calculate the statistics of records within an area
- Build to Value: Select records within a boundary for analysis
To use boundaries for any analytical function, the boundary must first be drawn (Boundary Tools). Ensure the file to be analyzed is open as well.
Overlay Template
The Template function enables pasting data into records that exist either inside, or outside the boundary.
EXAMPLE: The boundary may represent a sales territory. By using the template overlay, you can change the symbol of all the customers within that sales territory, and not affect any records outside of that territory.
To select all the records within a boundary:
- Select the Drawing Tools icon from the menu
- Select the Normal Cursor icon (arrowhead) from the toolbar
- Click within the drawn boundary
- Click Edit > Template from the menu
Select the Template Options to apply.
- Overlay: Selection status refers to records marked as TRUE in the Stop File; to select records within the boundary regardless of their selection status, check Ignore Selection Status.
- While Overlaying: To change the selection status of the chosen records in the Stop File, choose Select Records.
- Click OK.
Select the Stop File tab to review the selection status of the records (should now reflect TRUE in the column labeled Selected).
- Press F8 to display statistical data for the selected records.
To unselect and begin a new template overlay, click Edit > Template from the menu.
- Select Selected Records Only.
- Select Unselect Records.
- Click OK.
Repeat the process to select new records for any further analytical review.
Statistics Inside a Boundary
View summary statistics for records inside a selected boundary:
- Open the spreadsheet.
- Position the cursor over the drawn boundary and click to select it.
- Select Edit > Statistics from the menu, or press F8.
The Statistics Info box will include two additional columns, In Boundary and Out Boundary, with the applicable statistical results displayed in each.
Use the Drawing Tools to define or alter the boundaries, as needed.