Prevent symbols from overlapping in QGIS

Question

I have multiple points layers that I want to represent in a map. Because of the reality of the field and some errors of mapping, some layers are overlaying so the printed map is not good and not readable.

I'm wondering if it is possible to manage them so that they would be clearer and more visible?

Answer 1

First I mistook this was a common overlapping-features question... what makes this unique is, that these overlapping points are on different layers.

If we can use refFunctions plugin:

(1) Open Layer Properties | Style tab and highlight Simple marker. Scroll down to Offset X,Y and click on Data defined override (epsilon icon) and select Edit.

(2) In the Expression window, write:

CASE 
WHEN count_distinct(geomoverlaps('another_layer', $geometry)) = 0
THEN to_string(rand(-5, 5))  + ',' + to_string(rand(-5, 5)) 
ELSE '0.0,0.0'
END

Above example will offset your points by up to 5 mm (if your Offset X,Y unit is set to [Millimeter]) randomly, if they overlaps with those of another_layer.

This approach does have a limitation, as you see, that it works among 2 layers only. Sorry... :(

Answer 2

If you are facing symbols overlapping in print layout, just change the size of print layout from A4 to A1 OR A3.