Some projects require comparing multiple parcels within the same boundary. This video demonstrates using layer groups and analytics to compare metrics across multiple parcels within one project.
The Challenge: Multiple Sites, One Project
Traditionally, Giraffe defines a site boundary, and all calculations are based on what's drawn within that boundary. This can be limiting when you want to compare separate sites. The following steps outline how to overcome this limitation and effectively compare multiple sites using Giraffe's functionalities.
Step-by-Step Guide: Comparing Parcels in Giraffe
Let's assume you have a project with three adjacent parcels (Parcel A, Parcel B, and Parcel C) and want to determine which parcel is the most advantageous to purchase.
1. Transforming Parcels into Giraffe Geometries:
The first step is to convert your existing parcel data (typically imported as a shapefile or similar) into individual Giraffe geometries. This allows you to manipulate and analyze each parcel independently.
Right-Click and Create: Right-click on each parcel in your parcel layer and select "Create." This will generate a separate geometry for each parcel.
Individual Geometries: Ensure that each parcel is its own distinct geometry object within Giraffe.
2. Assigning Parcel Usage and Properties:
To facilitate accurate analysis, assign the appropriate usage (e.g., industrial, residential, commercial) to each parcel and copy any relevant properties from the original layer.
Assign Usage: For each parcel, manually assign the correct usage type. This will be crucial for leveraging usage-specific calculations and templates later.
Copy Properties: Copy all relevant properties from the original parcel layer (e.g., zoning regulations, existing building details) to the newly created Giraffe geometries. This ensures you have all the necessary information readily available.
3. Creating Layer Groups for Each Parcel:
Organizing your project into logical layer groups is essential for maintaining clarity and simplifying analysis. Create a separate layer group for each parcel, containing its constituent geometries.
Individual Layers: Place each parcel's geometries (e.g., the parcel outline and the building footprint) on separate layers. This allows for finer control over visibility and selection.
Group Layers: Drag one layer of a parcel onto another to group them together. This creates a hierarchical structure, with each parcel represented as a separate group.
Naming Conventions: Use a consistent naming convention for your layer groups (e.g., "Parcel A," "Parcel B," "Parcel C") to maintain organization.
4. Utilizing Duplicate Drawing Layers (A Giraffe Pro Tip!):
To speed up the process of creating layer groups, leverage Giraffe's "duplicate drawing layers" functionality.
Duplicate Empty Layers: Duplicate the initial set of layers you created for Parcel A. Since these layers are initially empty, the duplication process creates new, blank layers ready to be populated.
Rename and Adjust: Rename the duplicated layer groups (e.g., "Parcel B," "Parcel C") and adjust the layer names within each group to maintain consistency.
5. Assigning Geometries to the Correct Layers:
With the layer groups created, assign the corresponding geometries to their respective layers within each group.
Select and Assign: Select the geometries related to Parcel A and move them to the appropriate layers within the "Parcel A" layer group. Repeat this process for Parcels B and C.
6. Leveraging Analytics for Comparison:
Now that your project is well-organized, you can start analyzing the parcels and comparing their key metrics.
Urban Tab vs. Analytics: While the Urban tab provides high-level, generic metrics, for detailed comparison of multiple sites, use Giraffe's Analytics feature.
Content Library Templates: Utilize pre-built templates from the Giraffe content library to streamline the analysis process. Look for templates tailored to your specific land use (e.g., industrial, residential).
Custom Calculations: Customize the analytics to include calculations specific to your project requirements. This can involve using formulas to calculate things like development costs, potential revenue, or environmental impact.
Conclusion:
By following these steps, you can effectively compare multiple sites within a single Giraffe project, empowering you to make data-driven decisions. Giraffe's flexibility and analytical capabilities provide a powerful platform for evaluating development opportunities, optimizing urban plans, and ultimately creating more successful projects. Remember to leverage Giraffe's resources, including templates and documentation, to further enhance your workflow and unlock the full potential of the platform. Happy planning!