Why use Shapefiles?
Shapefiles (.SHP) are a standard format for vector data in GIS software . In Pythagoras, you can export points, lines or polygons to shapefile format, including attribute data and projection info (.PRJ file), as long as your project has a defined coordinate system (CRS).
Shapefile components
Each shapefile export generates multiple files:
File type | Description |
---|---|
.shp | The geometry (points, lines, or polygons) |
.shx | Index file |
.dbf | Attribute table (layer, color, etc.) |
.prj | Coordinate Reference System description |
Starting in Pythagoras 2024, the
.prj
file is included automatically if a valid CRS is set.
Workflow: exporting to shapefile
1. Set the coordinate system (CRS)
Go to Settings > Document Settings > Coordinate Reference System
Choose a CRS (e.g. Lambert 72 (EPSG:31370))
Click OK
The CRS is now active and shown in the control panel.
2. Select the objects
Select the objects you want to export
Use Selection > Select by Layer, or Ctrl+A for everything
3. Export to SHP
Go to File > Export > Export to Shape
Choose geometry type: points, lines, or polygons
Set file name and export location
Confirm coordinate system (preferably Global if CRS is set)
Click OK
This will generate .shp
, .shx
, .dbf
and, if applicable, .prj
files.
Key considerations
One geometry type per file
Shapefiles can't contain mixed geometry (points and lines in the same file).Set a CRS for .PRJ
Without a CRS, no.prj
file is generated — this may cause problems in GIS tools.Attribute export
Attributes such as layer, color, and name are stored in the.dbf
.
Common use cases
Submitting plans to local governments or GIS portals
Sharing vector data with partners using QGIS/ArcGIS
Exporting project boundaries as polygons for documentation
Converting CAD survey data into GIS format
Summary
Goal | What to do in Pythagoras |
---|---|
Export shapefiles | File > Export > Export to Shape |
Include .PRJ file | Set a CRS first via document settings |
Export multiple object types | Perform separate exports for each geometry type |
Export only project boundary | Draw and select the polygon, then export as SHP |
FAQ
Does styling (color, symbol) get exported?
No. Shapefiles store geometry and attribute data only. Styling must be reapplied in your GIS software using the attributes.
Can I export DTM or point cloud data as SHP?
No, only vector objects like points, lines and polygons can be exported to shapefile format.
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