Legend on by Default within Map?

[ArmstKP]

Is there a way to have the map open with the legend open?

[ChristopherCounsell]

Yes, add a map legend as a separate element:

https://doc.arcgis.com/en/dashboards/latest/get-started/map-legend.htm

You cannot have the map legend within the map element on by default.

[ArmstKP]

@ChristopherCounsell Thank you!  The only issue with adding it as a new element in a dashboard is that on a mobile device it looks horrible.

[ChristopherCounsell]

I would recommend not having a legend on by default if your audience will be mobile. The in-map legend should be fine for the majority of users; most people who can navigate a mobile phone have seen some icons on maps and websites. You can also provide a user guide for basic functionality, contact details...

If users are struggling with identifying features you might be able to redesign the map. Less layers, labels and symbology often helps significantly. I try to design the maps so that you don't need a legend, where possible...

So the technical answer is no, you cannot have the in-map legend on by default, but there is a dedicated legend element available.

The design answer is consider the purpose of the application, your audience and their devices. Can you adjust the symbology? Add labels? Share a user guide for tools/context/contacts? Remove unnecessary layers and elements bloating the app?

some documentation here....