# Organizing Data into Projects

Once the data is connected, the next step is to organize it into **projects**, which can then be published to end users through mapping applications.

A project consists of an **ordered list of map layers** and **non-spatial tabular data**. JMap Cloud mapping applications open these projects to display their content. You can create as many projects as needed to meet your requirements.

Each layer in a project is linked to a [spatial data source](https://docs.jmapcloud.io/en/jmap-cloud-portal/user-guide-for-jmap-cloud-portal/connecting-data-data-sources), which provides the data for the layer. It is possible to:

* reuse the same data source across multiple projects, each with different styles or filters,
* or use the same data source multiple times within a single project to show different filtered views of the same dataset.

This flexibility enables a **customized and targeted presentation** of your data while optimizing reuse.

Projects are **secure resources**: permissions can be assigned to control user access. This allows for precise management of who can view or interact with each project.

The **Projects** section of JMap Cloud Portal allows you to create and manage your projects. Projects can also be created directly from the [Dashboard](https://docs.jmapcloud.io/en/jmap-cloud-portal/user-guide-for-jmap-cloud-portal/introduction/dashboard).

The following sections describe the steps to create a new project and how to manage the projects you have access to.