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.