OGC API - Features

GISBox is a one-stop 3D GIS data editing, conversion and publishing platform that supports editing in multiple GIS formats such as OSGB/GEOTIFF/RVT, converting to 3DTiles/Terrain and publishing.

Introduction

OGC API - Features is one of the next generation Web API specifications developed by the OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium), the international standardization organization for geospatial information, to standardize the access and operation of vector data (features). It is a modernized specification of the traditional WFS (Web Feature Service), and its RESTful structure and lightweight JSON-based data format make it highly compatible with the Web and cloud environments, making it very suitable for integration into mobile and Web applications.

Data Format

1. GeoJSON: supported by default, lightweight and compatible with JavaScript.
2. HTML: can be used as a fallback for direct browser display.
3. GML (optional): maintains compatibility with traditional OGC specifications.
4. Others: There are also some formats that can be supported by extensions, such as CSV and Mapbox vector tiles.

Pros

1. RESTful architecture: Implement resource-oriented interface through HTTP GET interface, which is convenient for development.
2. Linkable API: Clearly show the relationship between data and request through links, improve crawlability and reusability.
3. High flexibility and scalability: Query parameters can be used to implement filtering, spatial search, attribute selection and other functions.
4. Support modern Web technology: Provide OpenAPI specification, which can be integrated with automatic document generation tools such as Swagger UI.
5. Lightweight response: GeoJSON can be used for efficient data exchange, which is also suitable for mobile terminals.
6. Easy deployment: Compared with traditional WFS, it has lower learning cost and is easier to implement.

Cons

1. Some advanced functions are not implemented: The transaction functions (create, update, and delete data) provided in WFS 2.0 are not included in the standard specification.
2. Compatibility issues with old formats such as GML: Conversion processing is required when integrating with existing systems.
3. Difficulty in managing data consistency in a distributed environment: Separate measures are required to ensure consistency in a cloud environment.

Application Scenario

OGC API - Functionality is suitable for publishing and sharing geospatial data in all fields, including urban planning, environmental monitoring, disaster prevention, transportation, agriculture, and energy. Its lightweight and flexibility are particularly favored in fields that need to easily distribute data through APIs, such as open data portals, smart cities, and mobile GIS applications. It has been widely adopted by national and local governments, research institutions, and private enterprises, and has attracted much attention as the next generation of geospatial data sharing platform.

Example

1. Demonstrates how to display an OGC API feature layer sample.

2. Browse OGC API feature services to find layers and add them to your map.

File Opening Mode

1. Expose data using OGC API functions.

2. View the OGC API collection.

Related GIS Services

Web Coverage Service (WCS)

Web Feature Service(WFS)

Web Map Tile Service (WMTS)

Tile Map Service (TMS)

References

1. https://ogcapi.ogc.org/features/
2. https://github.com/opengeospatial/ogcapi-features
3. https://opengeospatial.github.io/e-learning/ogcapi-features/text/basic-main.html