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Map Display Options: 2D, 3D Renderings, and 360º Maps

Updated: Jill Bobrick Igl Edited:

Overview

Concept3D maps can be displayed in different ways depending on how much visual detail, realism, and interactivity you want to provide. Each display option—2D, 3D, and 360º Map—offers a distinct experience while representing the same space.

This article explains what each display option offers, when you might choose one over another, and how you can optionally allow users to switch between views.

 

Understanding the Different Map Displays

Each display mode presents the same areas in a different way, with varying levels of visual detail and realism.

Visual representation of the different map display types

Base Tiles Map

A Base Tiles map uses standard map tiles with no custom overlays or renderings.

  • No overlay or custom imagery
  • Base map tiles only
  • Rotation possible for spinnable maps

This option is ideal for getting content live quickly with minimal setup. It works especially well for entry-level projects or when teams want to start publishing content while planning or budgeting for more immersive map experiences.

2D Renderings

A 2D rendered map is a flat, top-down representation of the environment.

  • Shows building footprints and basic shapes
  • No textures, trees, or elevation
  • Optimized for clarity, speed, and simple navigation

This view is ideal for users who want a clean, easy-to-read map without visual complexity.

3D Renderings

A 3D rendered map adds depth and visual context while remaining fixed in orientation. This is our most commonly selected display type. 

  • Features 3D-modeled buildings with textures
  • Includes trees and environmental details
  • Not spinnable or fully immersive

3D maps are useful to really make your map shine! It allows you to highlight uniqueness and bring your campus to life! 

360º Map

A 360º map provides the most immersive and realistic experience.

  • Fully spinnable and explorable
  • Built from highly accurate, real-world models
  • Offers the highest level of visual detail and realism

Note: The 360º display option is only available to customers who license a 360º map. If a 360º map is not licensed, this option will not appear.

 

Why Offer Multiple Display Options

Providing multiple map display types allows you to support a wider range of user needs—but it is entirely optional.

Important: You do not need to enable multiple display options. Most clients choose a single map display type (2D, 3D, or 360º Maps) and present that as the sole experience for their users.

You might choose to enable multiple displays only if you want to give users additional flexibility, such as:

  • Switching between a simple view (2D) and a more visual view (3D) based on preference
  • Starting with a clear, lightweight map and moving to richer context when needed
  • Exploring the same space at different levels of detail

Even without a 360º map license, this feature can be used to offer optional switching between 2D and 3D map experiences.

 

How to Use the Display Toggle 

Follow the steps below to switch between available map displays:

  1. Open the map 
  2. Locate the Map Display toggle. Find the toggle near the map controls.
  3. Select a display mode. Choose from the available options
  4. Explore the map. The map updates immediately, allowing you to interact with the selected display.

 

Configure Display Options in the CMS

Admins can control which display modes are available and which one loads by default.

Note: Concept3D must add the required renderings to the CMS before they can be displayed. Customers do not upload or manage the renderings themselves. In the CMS, admins are primarily responsible for choosing which display mode loads by default and whether the display toggle uses a custom name. All other setup is handled by Concept3D.

  1. Open the map in the CMS
    Navigate to the map you want to edit.
  2. Scroll to the Display options. Locate the section beneath Base Layer Types.
  1. Enable available display modes
    • Toggle 2D, 3D, and/or 360º on or off
    • The 360º option only appears if a 360º map is licensed and configured by Concept3D
  2. Set the default display
    Choose which display mode should load when the map opens.
  3. (Optional) Customize the toggle name
    If available, update the display toggle label to match your preferred terminology.
  4. Save your changes
    The selected display options will now be available on the front end.

 

 

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