Week 4 Sharing GIS Maps and Data

This week's lab was a fun introduction into using basemaps from ArcGIS online in your desktop application, using the search feature to locate tools and data within ArcDesktop, creating a custom map package, troubleshooting any errors and ultimately sharing the map via ArcGIS online.  We also learned how to create a map from scratch on ArcGIS online.  Finally, we learned to use the layer to KML conversion tool to create a KML file for use in Google Earth.  I've shown a quick overview here of the map I created using ArcDesktop: 

I'm also including a link to my ArcGIS Online Map:  http://arcg.is/1ZZTjKz

I chose to create a map of my top ten favorite parks in Florida.  These parks are all beautiful and offer many amenities such as hiking trails, biking trails, picnic areas and in many cases camping, swimming, kayaking and snorkeling opportunities.  Some are free and others charge a minimal fee.  Since the parks I selected were throughout the state, I wanted to choose a symbol that would work at the data frame scale of 4,622,324 (this scale showed the entire State of Florida).  Since a few of my choices were in clustered groups and would have been difficult to distinguish if I had used the same symbol I chose to use a color ramp for distinction.  I chose a ramp that used different colors with red being my most favorite and green being the least.  This made the points much easier to see on the map.  Having the ability to share maps with both users who have GIS software applications and those without is a great feature.  I prefer using ArcDesktop since it has much more functionality than its online counterpart.  It's also nice to be able to export to Google Earth and have the attribute data intact.  This would be a great feature to create a Google Earth map of specific projects within a department.  For example, we have both capital and commercial projects in our engineering department but not all of our users have access to cadd or GIS; exporting the location and basic information for use in Google Earth would allow all users to quickly locate where our projects lie within the city.

Module 4 Cartographic Design - The Ward 7 conundrum

The goal of this lab was to learn basic cartographic design skills employing Gestalt principles, intellectual hierarchy, visual hierarchy to achieve a map which suits the needs of the end user.

Using ArcCatalog, I reviewed the data which had been provided.  This review allowed me to organize my thoughts and list out the intellectual hierarchy.  This task helped me to determine what data I felt was most relevant to my map.  Now that I had an idea of what to use, I began the process of layer organization and symbology to begin my visual hierarchy.  I structured my layers logically so that more important layers were on top such as the schools and Ward 7.  Theses were followed by the transportation and environmental layers, with boundary information at the lowest level.  I then begin the task of applying contrast, figure-ground and balance.  Using prominent symbology for the schools, they stood out as the main feature.  Since Ward 7 was next in importance, I made sure to use figure-ground principles by making the Ward a lighter hue than the surrounding DC area.  My next task was to manipulate the environmental features (parks and rivers) so that they were intuitive to the viewer.  By using standard colors, blue for water, green for parks, they were easily recognizable.  I used color screening to adjust their hues so that they were discernible from the Ward 7 base but not overpowering.  I wanted to address the transportation layers next so that they were not so overwhelming.  I chose to not use the DC streets as they were unnecessary with respect to the map intent and making them visible was far too much clutter. For the remaining transportation data sets, I chose to make them similar in color but apply contrast by weighting each differently using line width.  I created a Ward 7 streets layer with data I had extracted from the main DC streets layer.  I wanted these delineated to help identify locales in Ward 7; I did not, however, want them to dominate.  I used a grey shade to make them visible, but not overpowering.  I made the major streets slightly wider and darker and labeled the ones that appeared to be main arteries both into and through Ward 7.  I made one exception to my transportation color scheme.  In Ward 7  made the state road red to separate it from the others as it was a significant road that traversed the Ward and connected it to the interstate.  This also helped to easily locate where I was in relation to DC using the inset map since this feature was similarly emphasized in both areas.  My next task was to label 7 neighbor hoods.  I chose a moderate text size and font that was easy to read.  By applying a halo effect, the text was easier to read as it stood out from the features below it.  I chose a height that showed these were important, but still secondary to the schools.  Once I was satisfied with the look of my data view, I switched to layout and began adding the inset map, scale, legend, north arrow, title and author/date/source information.  Balancing was an important aspect here, especially due to the oddly shaped base area with which we were working.  I wanted to be sure my information was visible but did not detract from the map nor cover important features.  Space was at a minimum here, again due to the irregular shape of the AOI.  I created the entire map in ArcDesktop.  Adjusting symbology and text were mainstays in my map production.  I found that tweaking was in order as I made changes to one layer, others needed to be adjusted until I was satisfied with the overall product.  Effects such as drop shadow and halo were helpful in emphasizing specific elements and making the map appear tidy without objects overlapping each other.

Whew, that was a lot of explanation!  Doing took even more effort.  I have to say that I initially created a map and felt it looked pretty good.  I turned away from the computer, and reviewed the principles in the book and realized I did not hit my target.  I returned to the map and assessed my color scheme and weighting.  Although everything was visible and the schools and Ward 7 stood out, it just was not quite right.  I looked to color brewer for guidance and imported a color scheme that I thought would improve my map.  At first having Ward 7 as the lightest feature really bothered me as it did not seem to pop, but as I adjusted the other color schemes and line weighting things really began to take shape.  When I returned to my other map I was astonished at how poor it looked!  Lesson learned for sure.  There were a couple other things I discovered that were helpful.  Throughout the process  I exported the map to a pdf and noted that there was a significant difference from my display to the resulting map.  Using this process throughout helped me to use appropriate colors and weights for printed materials.  I also found that by using the focus data frame feature I could tweak the size of my text so that it looked better in the layout view as it was misleading in the data view.  I learned a lot from this exercise and feel that I will continue to improve my cartographic skills through use of the principles in this module.

Fun with Mexico (Module 3 - Cartography using a GIS and GIS Cartography)

Despite being a bit involved, I really enjoyed this weeks lab.  I feel it provided an opportunity to practice some important ArcGIS skills in conjuction with the "art" and "science" of cartography such as:

• learning to effectively use ArcCatalog to review data prior to beginning your map so that you really think about what you are trying to achieve and determine if your ideas are achievable with the data you have
• If you've ever worked with rasters in other software you'll totally appreciate the Pyramid option on the front side so that you save valuable time and memory space when you're working in your .mxd
• I can't say enough about SQL and the time it can save!
• By creating three very distinct maps using, for the most part, the same data really emphasized the importance typography, symbology                                                                       and creativity play in producing a visually appealing,                                                       accurate, useful product.

I found myself creating the maps and then through the course of applying different tactics within each one I returned to some to tweak them a bit more.  I feel that this lab pulled together information we have learned in previous modules and allowed us to apply this learning in several different ways.  I also felt it was a nice blend with the work I'm doing in GIS 3015, Introduction to Cartograhpy.

I had a hard time deciding which map to post here, as I like them all for different reasons.  While not perfect, I feel each one represents a substantial gain in my GIS skillset.  I have chosen to post my Population map of Mexico.  I felt like this map gave me a substantial blend of data driven tasks and artistic creativity.  It pains me slightly to say it as I'm still struggling a bit, but with any of these maps, I can now see they could be improved upon even more using AI as part of the finalization/publication process.  Nonetheless, the output from ArcDesktop isn't too shabby.  My goal with the population map was to make each range quickly discernible but not overwhelm the eye with too many color changes.  I wanted Mexico to pop off the page but did not want the country boundary to be the main visual factor.  I also wanted surrounding oceans and land masses to complement rather than draw the attention away from the intended population information.  I feel I accomplished these goals by adding background color that was pleasing to the eye and appropriate for its feature without being overbearing.  As always, I wanted the title to concisely explain the map intent and have that echoed with the graphical representation of the data.  Including all essential map elements and properly balancing them on the page was my final step in production.

Module 3 - Typography

This weeks lab had us create and label Marathon, Florida and surrounding keys using both ArcDesktop and Adobe Illustrator.  In addition to allowing continued practice with data sets, layering and data views in ArcDesktop, this lab allowed for further exploration into Adobe Ilustrator.  The key learning objectives were to improve our skills within Adobe Illustrator and use this software to apply the knowledge gained in the chapter readings and lecture.  Critical to the lab were the ability to define and insert essential map elements.   Applying the general typographic guidelines to map labeling was intrinsic to this lab, including font choices, styles and heights, various subtle type characteristics within the text such as leading, use or non use of serifs and Title Case to mention a few.  Combining this with identifying proper label placement for different feature types.

My map emphasized Marathon and the surround keys.  I used ArcDesktop to import the data sets, create data frames, apply color the the land masses and add the a portion of the essential map elements, scale and north arrow.  Having exported to .ai format, I finalized my map in Adobe Illustrator.  While I am improving, Adobe Illustrator is still a bit clunky for me and I find that many things are trial and error until I learn what each tool does.  Until then, undo will be my buddy.  I enjoyed the ability to fully manipulate text type characteristics to add additional emphasis and distinction to labeled features.  In this way, not only does the symbology and  polylines indicate what I'm conveying, but also the text can be matched to the features so that the reader naturally associates one with the other without it being overbearing and slapping them in the face.  This is a feature I would love to have in Autocad!  By adding a background, it was easy to see that the land masses were in fact island chains.  Using a gradient coloration for my background, I brought the users attention to the full width of the map in a natural left to right progression.  Applying a drop shadow to the land masses helped them to rise above the water and draw the attention to them as well as their associated features.  Using various methods of labeling, I was able to distinguish between hydrographic features, points and areal features.  I customized the feature symbols to align with more standard cartographic guidelines and colors.  The park feature was difficult to see on the small Key so I applied an outerglow to help it pop off the small area without being overbearing.  I used a neat line with a subtler drop shadow effect for both my inset map and my legend.  I made sure to include all essential map elements, balance the page, make the map easy to interpret, yet still reflect some personal style.  Enough rambling, see for yourself:

Taking AI for a spin, or maybe AI took me for a spin! (Module 2 Intro to AI)

The intent of this lab was to help students develop an awareness of the importance of aesthetics as another important component in map production.  While production of an accurate map with ArcGIS desktop is important, it may not be your final production product.  By introducing AI, this lab provided the foundation for future use of AI to finalize and produce not only accurate, but also beautiful maps for many different purposes.  In this lab, I created a basic map of Florida in ArcGIS for desktop and then exported that map into Adobe Illustrator (AI).  The script function was a time saver as it allowed me to change all of my city symbology with one click.  While a little complex at first, I found the layers to be very useful.  I learned a valuable lesson in that sometimes more is less when it comes to what you create in ArcGIS for desktop prior to your export to AI.  I had generated all of my essential map elements prior to export and found that this step was not only unnecessary, but also produced additional layers that became cumbersome to identify and manage.  I won't be doing that again!  Since I'm a seasoned CAD user, I love and embrace the structure layers can provide when implemented properly.  The Window>Image Trace command was quite useful for removing the extra white background behind the state seal; this will be a great tool to remember.  I enjoyed the practice exercises with lines shapes and the extra hints those provided.  I will be referencing these and other videos often as I familiarize myself with AI.  I love the options with text placement, they are much more effective than what I've had to manipulate in Autocad and of course much more pleasing to the eye than labeling within ArcGIS Desktop.  While I feel I've barely scratched the surface of what AI can do, this skeptic has been won over and I'm anxious to learn more and am more confident, having worked through this lab.

I mapped the State of Florida for use in a children's encyclopedia.  The map provides basic information about the state, highlights a few major cities and displays some state symbols.  I tried to keep the map simple since my target audience is of a young age group.  I wanted to use color and imagery to get their attention and hopefully inspire them to study the map more closely and engage in discussion with their teacher and peers.

Own Your Map Lab Experience

This week's lab was a fun foray into map production.  The instructions were clear and made the task quite straightforward.  The goal of my map was to provide a general location as to where the UWF Main Campus is located both within the county and within the overall State of Florida.  I accomplished this task by importing the data provided into my map data view and laying them out within in logical manner in my layout view.  This task first included symbolizing the items appropriately.  Because I wanted to primarily show the UWF location within Escambia County, I chose it as my main layout and subsequently created an inset layout highlighting where Escambia County fell with regard to the remaining counties in Florida.  The final touches were to add the UWF Essential Map Elements as well as a provided UWF logo.  This lab allowed for experimentation in order to visualize the effect color, symbology, line weight, text height, frames and neatlines can have on the map document.  It also aided in reducing future panic if red exclamation points present themselves in the Table of Contents.  "Keep Calm and Map On"......;)

Here's my final product:

Module 1 Map Critique

This lab was designed to help us learn basic map elements and to evaluate maps using these criteria.  This will become a foundation for creating our own maps as we work through the courses.  This was a fun exercise for me.  I enjoyed looking at all the maps and honestly had trouble selecting which one was the worst!  There were quite a few!  Any way, the choices I went with are shown here:

For my well designed example I used SC Wildlife Zones:

Here is the critique I wrote for the map:

While not complex and multivariate, this map is well designed for its purpose.  The cartographer certainly placed concept before compilation and clearly delineated the requisite data.  The colors on the map are engaging without being too bright.  The depth of color is clear within appropriate zones while allowing for underlying features and text to be visible.  This along with the well placed title, subtitles, north arrow, scale bar, legend and date make the map layout attractive.  While the Zone number, county boundaries and names are not specified in the legend, the objective is clear and helps to keep the clutter to a minimum by not over-weighting the legend with extraneous information that can be surmised by the user.  The combination of all of these elements successfully engaged my emotions causing me to want to stop and study the map rather than giving it a cursory glance.  As a hunter, I would be able to use this map to quickly determine the game zone in which I was hunting.  Using the hyperlink on the map, I would be able to quickly determine specific regulations for the zone in which I was hunting as well as other pertinent information.

For my poorly designed example I used Hurricanes_1851-2005:

Here is the critique I wrote for the map:

This map makes me frustrated and sad.  The cartographer had an intent to display data concerning hurricanes from 1851-2005 in the Atlantic Ocean.  Having seen well done versions of these maps I am aware of how much data can be gleaned from using similar map features but providing thorough and detailed labeling.  Because of its lack of labeling and no use of data explanation for important events with the data, the map utterly fails to convey complex ideas with clarity, precision and efficiency.  If I did not already have knowledge of the subject matter, I would not have any idea as to the intent of this map.  In my opinion, the cartographer should have conceptualized exactly what he wanted to convey. Was it hurricane quantity, hurricane strength, common pathways?  Did he want to include possible cause from water temperatures and climatic events from other nearby continents and ocean currents?  Many tracks could have been taken to produce a map that would be visually appealing yet allow for quantitative information to be determined through use of better scale, labeling, and explanations of critical events.  Because of the denseness of hurricane data along the eastern seaboard, Panama, Cuba, the Bahamas, Virgin Islands and South America it would be important to narrow the scope of the data to be conveyed.  One might need to do a series of Map Plates in order to graphically convey all the data for analysis.  Another approach could produce graphical representations of important events and other data being conveyed that could be used in conjunction with the main theme of this map.  Thus a large amount of information could be provided in a logical efficient manner, allowing the user to focus on the main theme and use the additional information to glean insight and analyze the data.  Critical to either style would be to produce a scale suitable for the information conveyed and the area represented.  Including a north arrow and scale bar with appropriate units would also be helpful.  Depending on the theme determined, the legend should include logical explanations of the symbology and colors.  Labeling the continents and possibly the states would be helpful.  If labeling the states becomes too cluttered due to hurricane tracks, a small “cut-out” could be included in one of the blank areas such as northern California and Canada as they are not affected by hurricanes according to this map. Again, depending on the intent the above mentioned information may or may not be necessary.  While the map is currently poorly designed, it has tremendous potential to be reworked and become a visually appealing, useful map.