When asked about generating dynamic marathon route maps like those in Beijing Marathon 2024, I discovered MapPlus—a zero-code solution for creating animated race visualizations. This tool eliminates the need for custom development while producing professional-grade outputs.

Introducing MapPlus

Platform: https://www.mapplus.com/
MapPlus offers four modules: Enterprise, Fieldwork, Data, and Broadcast. For dynamic mapping, we utilize the Data Module (free tier available).

Step-by-Step Workflow

1. Route Data Preparation

  1. Access Data Module → Broadcast

  2. Import marathon route (KML format) or digitize manually:

    • Create animation layer → Line drawing tool
    • Trace route using high-resolution basemaps (Tianditu/Bing/Changguang Satellite recommended)

      Result:

2. Key POI Annotation

  1. Create point layer for landmarks
  2. Customize symbology:
  3. Add animated runner (supports .glb models):

3. Animation Configuration

Switch to Broadcast tab:

  1. Viewpoint Animation:

    • Select "Object Trajectory Focus"
    • Set duration ≈180s for smooth playback

  2. Layer Animation:

    • Apply "Line Growth" to route layer

  3. Object Animation:

    • Animate runner along route

Publishing & Exporting

  1. Preview animations:
  2. Publish interactive map with background music:
    Sample Output
  3. Export MP4 video for social media:

Data Management

Export to standard formats (KML/SHP) for GIS workflows:

Pre-processed Data Download:

Additional Capabilities

  1. Automated cartography with national datasets:
  2. 2D/3D integration:
  3. Cloud-based data management:

MapPlus supports multi-source data (Excel/CSV/SHP/KML/GeoJSON) and requires no programming, making dynamic mapping accessible to all GIS professionals.