Module 1

This was the first module of Computer Cartography. We were asked to evaluate a well designed map and a poorly designed map.

This map is well designed and easy to read because there is no “map crap”, only substantial information is mapped, and the map does not lie. This map appeals to me because the colors are muted and not overwhelming. A link to more data was provided incase the user would like to know more. There are no obviously large gaps in the map that would make it feel uneven.

This map violated the commandments “minimize map crap”, “map layout matters”, and “map substantial information”. The colors are overwhelming to the user. The legends and overall map are very busy. Too much data is provided. The map is very hard to interpret and essential map elements like titles and legend borders are interrupted by the map data. This  map would benefit from focusing on a local region, not including as much data in the legends, and using less striking colors.