Autodesk 15606-011408-9330 User Guide - Page 117

For example, you might create two layers that show the same areas at different levels of detail: the less detailed layer displays when you zoom out and the more detailed layer displays when you zoom in. In this case, you might name the layers "Roads - General" and "Roads - Detailed" so that you know which one you're working with in Autodesk MapGuide® Author (and through the Viewer API), but you could have them both display the name "Roads" in the Viewer, so that they appear to be the same layer to the user.
Should users be able to select features on this layer? If the layer is unselect- able, users will not be able to generate reports, create buffers, or use the Select Within command. However, if the layer contains data that is primarily background data, making it unselectable prevents users from accidentally selecting data on that layer when they try to select an overlapping feature on another layer. For example, if you have outlines of neighborhoods that are only for orientation purposes, you could make the layer unselectable so that users don't accidentally select the neighborhood outline when they are trying to click a street. Note that if a particular data set will be selectable, you should divide it by feature types (transformers on one layer, fire hydrants on another). If the data set will be unselectable, divide it the way you want it to display (red lines on one layer, green lines on another).
Do you want to display more or less data depending on the current scale? If so, create multiple layers of the same area that turn on and off at particular display ranges. You can quickly create copies of a layer by pressing CTRL as you drag and drop a layer in the Map Explorer in Autodesk MapGuide Author.
Will the data on this layer be used in a report? If so, be sure to add the appropriate report to the map. As you plan multiple layers, you can create a spreadsheet that helps you keep track of your layers and the data sources they use. As you start filling it in with your layers, you are beginning to plan for the whole map. For example, you might decide that there are really three main display ranges: the first shows the whole world, the second shows a whole country, and the third shows a city. You could then look at your spreadsheet and determine which layers should fall within which of these three display ranges and set display ranges for them accordingly. For more information, see "Creating a Design Spreadsheet" on page 120. Planning Layers | 117