Module 1: Introduction to Cartography & Map Design

Module 1: Introduction to Cartography & Map Design

This module served as an introduction to cartography. We were introduced to the early history and contributions to cartography including the creation of the first compass, historical maps, uses of historical maps (pre navigation), and the implications of all of these on the field today. We also learned basic cartographic terms and were introduced to common map design principles. This all is no doubt laying a foundation on which we will build for the rest of the semester. Learning what distinguishes a well-designed map from a poorly designed one requires looking at many maps critically and applying common design principles. That is what I endeavored to accomplish in the lab assignment. The following in an excerpt from the said assignment. 

Well Designed Map:

(Source: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Zoo-Map-Web-ENGLISH-DEC-23.jpg )

This map effectively demonstrates Commandments 1 and 3, map substantial information, and effectively labeled maps respectively. It effectively communicates the location of all animal enclosures, the paths by which visitors may access them, and necessary amenities they may need on the way. This all in a map that can be printed out and read on a standard sheet of printer paper. This is no small feat considering the zoo boasts almost 400 species in its care.  In addition to being effective, the map is likewise attractive and interesting to look at, no doubt delighting users of all ages. Though this map is rich in pictures and graphics, it stops short of becoming muddled. I find this map interesting, informative, and aesthetically pleasing. I like that it is effective with the added flourish of an artistic rendering. The use of the animals as their own symbols is much more effective than having a long list of simple shape icons in the legend. This allows me (the user) to intuitively understand where enclosures are located without having to go back and forth between the legend. The colors chosen are both pleasing to the eye and descriptive of the themes present in the parks. I also like that the walking paths are easily distinguishable from the background throughout the whole of the map. One final thing that I love about this map is it gives the look and feel of an eye spy map, adding an element of whimsy and fun to its otherwise utilitarian purpose. The only place where the contrast is lacking is in the upper left hand area. Important areas on the map are labeled in an easily distinguishable font of appropriate size and color. Once again this map balances richness and restraint by having enough labels but not so many that they crowd the other visual information being communicated. The labels are also sized in a hierarchy that is intuitive and communicates areas and specific locations without the need for additional symbols and lines ( extra “map crap"). Areas such as “Tropics trail” appear in large bold letters with locations along the trail labeled in smaller unbolded lettering (“Tropical Flights” and “Monkey Village” for example).

Poorly Designed Map:

(Source: https://www.vox.com/2015/2/18/8056325/bad-maps )

This map leaves much to be desired. Its intent is presumably to inform EMD fans (the users) what the top EDM song is in their state and states across the lower 48 states. This map lacks most basic elements including a title. It has no information explaining anything about the purpose. Looking at this map leaves me asking a lot of questions. What is the time frame of this information? How does this relate to the number or play or population of EDM listeners? Why is everything blue? The shades of blue are difficult to distinguish from one another. A poor design choice indeed. As the first map was a shining example of commandments 1 and 3, this one demonstrates what happens when those commandments are ignored. This map would be much more effective if it chose colors with more contrast from one another. Adding a descriptive title or other descriptive information would also bring this map closer to being effective. I dare say that the creator of this map also failed to pay heed  to commandment 6 “Evaluate the map.” Had they done this, perhaps they would have seen the lack of substantial information and amended it before publishing it online.