Frequently Asked Questions¶
Getting started¶
Can I use my own boundary files?¶
Yes. You can submit an extract using your own boundary file using the "Custom" tab on the GeoQuery boundary selection page.
Can I select data for multiple boundaries?¶
Yes, you can select as many feature collections at a time as you like (e.g., Ghana ADM1, Ghana ADM2, Tanzania ADM1), but individual feature selection is only available within a single feature collection (e.g., Ghana ADM1).
Can I edit or resubmit a previous request?¶
Modifying previous requests is not currently supported. You can submit a new request at any time, and any previously cached data will be returned quickly without reprocessing.
Data and results¶
What format will I receive my data in?¶
Each completed request includes:
- A CSV file containing your results for use in Excel, Stata, SPSS, and similar tools.
- An HTML file with metadata for your request including dataset descriptions, citation information, and sources.
- A GeoPackage file for use with GIS software.
- A PDF file of the publication describing GeoQuery's underlying methods which must be cited when using data from GeoQuery. See also Citing GeoQuery.
- A JSON file with the raw contents of your request selection (not typically needed but may help with programmatic management of data).
How long will it take to receive my data?¶
Many requests complete almost instantly due to preprocessing and caching. Requests requiring new processing may take up to several hours.
Why are some years missing from the options for a dataset?¶
Filters are dynamically generated from the underlying data. Some datasets simply do not have records for every year.
Where can I find details on the extract methods used?¶
The tooltips alongside each method in the selection tabs provides descriptors of the extract methods, but you also can read the GeoQuery paper or visit aiddata.org/geoquery for links to the codebase, additional resources, and documentation.
Research and examples¶
Do you have examples of analyses conducted using GeoQuery data?¶
Yes — examples of reports and publications using GeoQuery across a range of disciplines and research topics are available here.
Do you conduct research using this tool?¶
Yes. AidData works with a wide range of organizations to analyze spatial information. See examples at aiddata.org or contact us at geo@aiddata.wm.edu to learn more about specific workstreams at AidData.
Support and feedback¶
Do you have tutorials or additional learning resources?¶
Yes — tutorial videos, research applications, and more are available at aiddata.org/geoquery.
How can I get help or ask a question?¶
We suggest first exploring the rest of the documentation, as well as the GitHub repository for existing Issues or Discussions. If you still need help, you may create a new Issue in our GitHub repository](https://github.com/aiddata/geoquery) or email us at geo@aiddata.wm.edu.
Where can I provide feedback or request new datasets?¶
You may submit specific feedback (bugs, suggested features, etc) or data requests by creating a new Issue in our GitHub repository. For any other feedback please email us at geo@aiddata.wm.edu.
How can I support GeoQuery?¶
GeoQuery is a free service, but continued development and hosting depends on funding. If you are a funder or donor interested in helping us help others, please reach out to our partnerships team at awooley@aiddata.org.