Displaying dot density layers in AGOL

[AlexaKorber]

Does anyone have any tips on how to display a dot density layer in AGOL? I created the layer in Desktop, but it's looking like it can only be hosted as a map service rather than a feature service. This means it is becoming part of the basemap and I can't move it over any of the other layers in the web map. 

Thank you,

Alexa

[IsabelMendoza]

I am trying to do the same but I can't even share as a map service. Is it any other possible workarounds? 

Thanks,

Isa

[Anonymous User]

Hey Isabel, I had this issue too and found that Dot Density symbology is not currently supported in ArcGIS Online (https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/help/sharing/analyzer-error-messages/00085-layer-uses-an-unsupport...)

The two workarounds (I have used) are to:

1) publish the layer as a tile layer (not vector tiles, that is not supported either yet) or

2) if this is for a custom app use the JavaScript API's dot density renderer. Both of these have worked for my use cases. Hopefully dot density feature layers will be added soon!

[IsabelMendoza]

Hey Ethan! Thank you! Do you have any resources that can show me how to go the custom app  JavaScript API"s route? I am still getting the to know the developer side of ArcGIS. Thanks!

Isa

[Anonymous User]

Sure, here is a good example of using it:

https://developers.arcgis.com/javascript/latest/sample-code/sandbox/index.html?sample=visualization-...

and this is a good starting point for getting started with creating a custom application using the JavaScript API:

https://developers.arcgis.com/javascript/latest/guide/quick-start/

[IsabelMendoza]

Thank you!