Customize Geolocation Map in Frappe Framework v15
Introduction & Context
Maps are no longer optional in modern ERP systems. Whether you are tracking customers, vendors, assets, or field staff, geolocation visualization adds immediate operational clarity.
In Frappe Framework v15, geolocation maps are built directly into the Desk interface and can be customized using standard DocType fields—without third-party plugins or custom JavaScript. This guide explains how geolocation maps work in Frappe v15 and how to configure them correctly.
What Is a Geolocation Map in Frappe?
Answer:
A geolocation map in Frappe is a built-in map view that plots DocType records on a map using latitude and longitude fields.
The map view allows users to:
- Visualize records spatially
- Identify geographic clusters
- Navigate directly to records from the map
It is fully integrated with List and Report views.
How Does Geolocation Mapping Work in Frappe v15?
Frappe uses two numeric fields to plot locations:
- Latitude
- Longitude
When these fields are present and configured in a DocType, Frappe automatically enables a Map View for that DocType.
No custom API calls or external map SDKs are required.
Technical Prerequisites
Before enabling geolocation maps, ensure:
- Frappe Framework version is v15
- Developer Mode is enabled
- You have permission to customize DocTypes
The DocType represents location-based data (customers, leads, assets, etc.)
How to Enable Geolocation Map for a DocType
Step 1: Add Latitude and Longitude Fields
Answer:
To enable a map view, the DocType must contain two fields of type Float.
Required field names (recommended):
- latitude
- longitude
These fieldnames are automatically detected by Frappe.
Step 2: Save and Reload the DocType
Once fields are added:
- Save the DocType
- Reload Desk
Frappe will now recognize the DocType as map-enabled.
How to Access the Map View in Desk
Answer:
After configuration, the Map View becomes available from the DocType’s view selector.
Steps:
- Open the DocType list
- Click the view switcher (top-right)
- Select Map
All records with valid latitude and longitude values will appear on the map.
Implementation Details
Supported Field Types
| Field | Type | Required |
| Latitude | Float | Yes |
| Longitude | Float | Yes |
Records without values in these fields are automatically excluded from the map.
How Frappe Handles Map Rendering
- Map rendering is handled internally by the Desk UI
- No hooks or custom JavaScript are required
- Performance is optimized using server-side filtering
User Guidance: Best Use Cases for Geolocation Maps
Geolocation maps are ideal for:
- Customer and Lead tracking
- Asset and equipment locations
- Site and project mapping
- Delivery or service coverage analysis
They help teams see patterns instantly instead of interpreting rows of data.
Best Practices & Tips
- Always validate latitude and longitude inputs
- Use decimal degrees format (e.g., 23.0225, 72.5714)
- Avoid storing coordinates as text
- Combine map view with filters for clarity
- Keep coordinate fields read-only if auto-filled
Advanced Topics
Auto-Populating Latitude and Longitude
While Frappe does not auto-geocode by default, coordinates can be populated via:
- Custom scripts
- API integrations
- External geocoding services
Once values exist, the map updates automatically.
Combining Map View with Filters
Map View respects list filters. This allows:
- Region-based visualization
- Status-based location tracking
- Time-bound geographic analysis
This is especially useful for sales and operations teams.
Integration Patterns
Geolocation maps integrate seamlessly with:
- CRM modules
- Asset Management
- Project sites
- Field Service workflows
They enhance decision-making without adding UI complexity.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Map View Not Visible
- Ensure both latitude and longitude fields exist
- Verify field type is Float
- Reload Desk after customization
Records Not Appearing on Map
- Check for empty coordinate values
- Validate numeric format
- Confirm user permissions
Industry Relevance
Geolocation maps are widely used in:
- Real estate ERP solutions
- Logistics and delivery systems
- Sales territory planning
- Asset-heavy industries
They reduce operational blind spots and improve planning accuracy.
Target Audience
This guide is designed for:
- ERPNext Developers
- Frappe Framework Customizers
- ERP Consultants
- Business Analysts working on location-based data
Summary: Why Geolocation Maps Matter in Frappe v15
Geolocation maps in Frappe Framework v15 provide a powerful, no-code way to visualize location-based data directly inside ERPNext. With just two fields, teams gain spatial insight that improves planning, execution, and decision-making—making maps an essential feature, not an add-on.
