How to share measurement results with KML, PDF, CSV and map links
Measurement results should be shared in the format the receiver can actually use.
Field takeaways
- KML/KMZ is for quick map viewing.
- PDF is a readable summary.
- CSV carries point tables.
- DXF is CAD; GeoJSON is GIS/web.
- MapLab Survey exports different formats from one project.
Which format goes to whom?
A client usually needs PDF or KML: one reads, the other opens on a map. The CAD office gets DXF, the GIS team GeoJSON or Shapefile, whoever wants a point list gets CSV. Sending everyone the same format makes work; asking what tool the recipient uses and choosing accordingly removes two phone calls before they happen.
Why a link beats an attachment
An attachment freezes the data at the moment of sending; a link shows the current state every time it is opened. The other side needs no app installed either — the web share link opens in a browser. On revision-heavy jobs, "which attachment was the current one?" ends with a single link.
Four checks before sharing
Does the file open in the right place? Are the layer names understandable? Is the coordinate system written down? Are the photos attached to the right points? These four checks prevent nearly every question that would otherwise follow the share. A fifth is courtesy: date and project in the file name — "final_FINAL2.kml" tells the archive nothing.
The WhatsApp reality
Field crews actually share through WhatsApp, and it has one trap: some versions alter the KML/KMZ extension or wrap the file. If the recipient cannot open it, the extension is the first thing to check. For critical deliveries, email or a share link behaves more predictably.
When the recipient can install nothing
Send KML — it opens in Google Earth and plenty of other tools — or share the web link directly. A PDF report also opens everywhere and carries the map image, measurement table and photos as a one-file summary of the delivery.
See it in action
MapLab Survey | Professional Mobile GIS, GPS Surveying & Land Measurement App
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MapLab Survey handles RTK/GNSS point capture, drawing, area and volume calculations and coordinate conversion, then exports to DXF, KML/KMZ, GeoJSON, Shapefile, GeoPackage, NCZ or CSV. Capture, calculation and export work offline. Live NTRIP corrections and online basemaps need a connection.
Frequently asked questions
Which format should I share?
Depends on the receiver.
KML or PDF for client?
KML for map, PDF for report.
Which file for CAD?
DXF.
Should CRS be included?
Yes.
Technical references
The field guidance in this article is aligned with the technical and official references below.
Related: Field delivery package · Measurement report · Open KML file · MapLab Survey