Chart & Visualization Issues

Can Excel Use a Custom Map for a Map Chart?

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to know if they can import and use a custom map, such as a building master plan or a non-geographic diagram, as a Map Chart in Excel.

Can Excel Use a Custom Map for a Map Chart?

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to visualize data on a non-geographical custom image or layout within a spreadsheet.
Observed behavior: Excel's native Map Chart feature is designed strictly for geographic data using Bing Maps and lacks the functionality to upload or use arbitrary custom maps.

Before you start

Ensure your data is properly formatted in a structured table, and determine whether your custom map is a 2D floor plan or a 3D diagram, as this will dictate which workaround works best for you.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Excel 3D Maps (Power Map) for Custom Backgrounds

While standard Map Charts do not support custom images, Excel's 3D Maps feature allows you to import a custom image and plot data over it.

This workaround leverages a feature formerly known as Power Map. It allows you to set any picture (like a theme park map or building layout) as a background scene and overlay your data points using X and Y coordinates.

Enable 3D Maps

Open your Excel workbook, go to the 'Insert' tab on the ribbon, and click on '3D Map' (or 'Tour') in the Tours group.

Create a New Custom Scene

In the 3D Maps window, click 'New Tour'. Then, click 'New Scene' in the ribbon and select 'New Custom Map' from the dropdown menu.

Import Your Custom Map

Click the 'Browse' button in the Custom Map Options dialog box to select your custom image file. Click 'Apply' to set it as your background.

Plot Your Data

Use your dataset's X and Y coordinate columns to place data points exactly where they belong on your imported custom image.

Use Excel 3D Maps (Power Map) for Custom Backgrounds

Version Requirement: 3D Maps is available in Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, and Microsoft 365 subscriptions.

Solution 2

Use an Image with Linked Data Shapes

A simpler, 2D workaround involves placing a static background image in your worksheet and overlaying shapes that dynamically link to cell values.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

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If you are frustrated by the limitations of Microsoft Excel's map charts and want a cost-effective solution for everyday spreadsheet tasks, consider WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, feature-rich spreadsheet application that handles standard charts and data visualization effortlessly, without the need for an expensive subscription.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free suite and follow the simple installation instructions.
2. Open Your Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and seamlessly open your existing Excel workbooks with full format retention.
3. Visualize Your Data: Use the built-in shapes, images, and charting tools to build your customized dashboards and diagrams.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) and CSV formatsRich set of built-in 2D and 3D chart types for powerful data visualizationFree, lightweight, and fast-loading with a familiar user interfaceSeamless migration of your existing workbooks and linked data shapes

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Frequently Asked Questions

What geographic data does the standard Excel Map Chart support?

The native Excel Map Chart recognizes geographical regions such as countries, states, provinces, counties, and postal codes by utilizing Bing Maps data. It cannot map abstract or non-geographical locations.

Can I submit a request to Microsoft to add custom map charts?

Yes, you can submit a feature request directly to Microsoft using the Feedback Hub app on Windows, or by navigating to Help > Feedback within the Excel application.

Are there third-party add-ins for Excel custom maps?

Yes, there are several third-party add-ins available in the Microsoft Office Store (such as Visio Data Visualizer or specialized BI tools) that offer extended capabilities for mapping custom floor plans and diagrams.

Excel & Data Problems