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:

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)

1. Go to Settings > Document Settings > Coordinate Reference System

2. Choose a CRS (e.g. Lambert 72 (EPSG:31370))

3. 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

1. Go to File > Export > Export to Shape

2. Choose geometry type: points, lines, or polygons

3. Set file name and export location

4. Confirm coordinate system (preferably Global if CRS is set)

5. 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

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.