Maps can be used to meet a wide variety of needs. With so many possibilities available, creating, requesting, or purchasing a map can sometimes become a challenging task.
This article presents practical recommendations for those who are not yet familiar with map production and cartographic products. By defining each of the items below, it becomes much easier to obtain the most appropriate map for a specific purpose.
Define the intended use
Maps can be produced for:
- Reports and technical documents
PowerPoint presentations
Magazines, books, and newspapers
Websites and online platforms
Framed wall displays
Information systems and GIS applications
Define the geographic coverage
The geographic extent of the map should be clearly specified, such as:
- World
- Brazil
- States or provinces
- Municipalities
- A specific region or study area
Define the theme
Maps can be developed for a wide range of subjects, including:
- Environment and Natural Resources
- Industry
- Agribusiness
- Logistics and Transportation
- Marketing and Market Analysis
- Define the Delivery Format
Maps may be delivered either as printed products or digital files.
Figure 1 – Printed map of Brazil’s Railway Network
Printed maps are commonly used in offices, meeting rooms, trade shows, and operational environments where large-format visualization is important.
Define the digital file format
Depending on the intended application, maps can be delivered in different digital formats, including:
- JPEG
- GIF
- EPS
- SHP (Shapefile)
- KML (Keyhole Markup Language)
Define the size
Maps can be produced in standard or custom sizes, such as:
- A4
- A3
- A2
- A1
- A0
- Custom dimensions
Special requirements
Additional features may be incorporated when producing framed maps, including:
- Glass surfaces suitable for annotations using dry-erase markers
- Metallic backing for the use of magnetic markers and symbols
These options are particularly useful in planning rooms, logistics operations, and sales management environments.
Define the message to be communicated
Before requesting a map, it is essential to define the message that the map should convey to its audience.
A well-designed map is more than a collection of geographic information—it is a communication tool. The effectiveness of the map depends on how clearly it supports the objectives of the report, presentation, project, or analysis.
Maps designed for Your needs
Each combination of requirements results in a unique cartographic product. By carefully defining the intended use, geographic coverage, theme, format, size, and communication objectives, it is possible to create a map specifically tailored to your needs.
Additional information and recommendations are available in the articles section:
The best maps are those designed specifically for their intended purpose, audience, and message.