Artefacts and Geospaces

Abstract

In the era of paper maps everything seemed simple: produce a map according to the specifications that had been developed over many years; deliver the completed artwork to a printer; print the map according to ‘tried-and-true’ methodologies; and distribute the map. Simple! Working to methods that had been developed for over 500 years, within an established cartographer/printer framework, meant that paper maps could be efficiently compiled reproduced and used. Now, with the advent of Web mapping—delivered as ‘standard’ products or user contributed/collaborative products via Web 2.0—the era of ‘just’ paper maps has passed. Users, and producers, have access to a plethora of digital archives, base maps, geo-information, imagery and artifacts. They can retrieve or generate cartographic documents and tools that have the currency, accuracy and focus for knowledge-gathering and decision support that needs to consider geography as an underpinning resource. This chapter firstly considers the ‘new’ cartographic artifacts and their effectiveness as a communicator of geographic information. It reflects on what is considered to be ‘good’ design. Then it outlines the elements of good cartographic design. Finally, Web-delivered cartographic artifacts are addressed in terms of what is an effective communication method.