Spatial components allow business owners to view different forms of data on web maps. This can be accomplished by importing a CSV file featuring latitudes as well as longitude columns. If your CSV file lacks latitude or longitude columns, consider turning to geocoding. Geocoding an address based column is the surest way of creating these features.
Of course, geocoding isn’t that easy. It can be complex, especially if you don’t have GIS software knowledge. However, this shouldn’t scare you. You can leverage on numerous applications, packages, etc. to familiarize yourself with the process. On those lines, this article is going to focus on geocoding a CSV of addresses based on R. Keep reading:
Table of Contents
The Basics
To map your data, you need long coordinates. The process requires expertise. However, this shouldn’t scare you. With the following quick guide, you will learn the whole process of geocoding a batch CSV address in R.
Download
To download a batch geocode CSV proceed as follows:
To geocode your CSV file, you will need a special visualization based package. From here, consider installing it in the R Studio. The first step involves opening a new R based script using this sequence: “File” > “New File” > “R. From, here, proceed to type the install packages key on line one (this is located at the top left based pane). The next step involves clicking on the “Run” icon. Alternatively, you can press the Shift-Command-return key. The package will download and install in the console pane.
Prepare the CSV Addresses
For this example, you will be required to use a CSV featuring similar names, addresses, etc. Note the address’s name in the listing address. The best results will come only when the town, state, etc. are listed on the column.
Copying the R Script
Go to the R studio. Then proceed to open a new script. Use this sequence to get things right: “File” > “New File” > “R Script.” From here, scroll down. You will be taken in an icon that instructs you to copy the R script. For more explanation regarding the meaning of each line, keep scrolling down.
Understand the R Script
First, start by loading the map library. From here, consider adding one line with the file. Go to the file selection box and select an open file. You will be allowed to search your PCX for CSV. From here, R should read the CSV. Then the CSV will be stored as a variable OrigAdress. From here, you should see the initialization of the data frame by the script. The geocode address featuring the loop will be stored after the process of initialization is complete. Write the data on your CSV after the loop completes running. Name it geocoded.scv.
Running the Script
Hit the “Run” bottom. Alternatively, you can press the Shift-Command-Return. All rows will be passed to the API of Google (i.e. console pane).
Checking the Geocoded CSV
Check to see if your new geocoded spreadsheet has 3 three attached columns. They include:
- Lon
- Lat
- Geo-Address
From here, hit Create Map.
The Bottom-Line
According to experts, geocoding is making life easy. However, its complex—requiring in-depth knowledge of the areas of programming and ICT. However, you can still do it. With the above guide, you are sure to geocode the CSV file using beneficial applications and software.
