In an era where technology has revolutionized navigation, the age-old debate between digital maps and paper maps persists. Should we embrace the convenience and versatility of digital mapping tools, or strive to uphold the charm and reliability of traditional paper maps? This brief exploration delves into the merits of each, weighing up the benefits and drawbacks to of digital and paper maps. In the modern age of smartphones and GPS devices, the allure of digital maps is undoubtedly strong with promises of real-time updates, interactive features, and seamless navigation. Yet, amidst this digit ..read more

It is widely recognised that physical activity, particularly if undertaken outdoors, can help support good Mental Health and general wellbeing. Since we spend such a lot of time in the workplace, as employers, we should look to address the wellbeing of staff. Many companies actively encourage light exercise and outdoor activity as a means of encouraging staff to perform better and to feel motivated and focussed. Improvements in work/life balance can help reduce workplace stress and lead to happier, healthier staff. MIND, the UK mental health charity, state that “60 per cent of employees say th ..read more

Most of us would probably describe an atlas as a collection of printed maps or charts, usually having a consistent design throughout.  However, when we dig a little deeper there are in fact several different types of atlas as outlined below. The Reference Atlas Probably the most common type of atlas, the Reference Atlas is a large format book containing detailed information in the form of maps, tables, images, text and usually an index to visually describe a specific geographic entity such as a continent or country.  The Reference Atlas will often also contain facts, figures and in ..read more

When we talk about ‘large scale’ mapping, we often mean a map or plan showing a small area of land or physical space in detail – such as a CAD plan or drawing.  Beyond such architectural-style CAD plans, there are in fact many different use cases of large-scale maps and plans in the Cartographic World; from entire site mapping for Estates and Facilities Management through to discreet detailed room plans for familiarisation and evacuation purposes. Many organisations, from schools to large factories may already hold CAD drawings, architectural PDFs or even hand-drawn plans. Although such s ..read more

When commissioning a cartographic design project, there are several different ways to engage the services of a specialist map provider, as this short article explains. Totally new to Cartography? Many people will never have commissioned mapping before and may be unsure of the terminologies, processes, accessibility considerations and possible output formats – in fact, this tends to be the case for the majority of enquiries received. Such clients will be especially reliant on the cartographer’s experience in recommending appropriate content and map styles to suit the particular needs of the aud ..read more

When we look at a modern map designed by a cartographer using cartographic design workflows and software, the reader will probably not be aware that the map in question may also have benefitted from processes using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).  There are in fact a range of GIS techniques which are commonly used to underpin map-making activities.  Here we provide a few examples of how these two different but related disciplines support each other and more importantly benefit the map user. Needs Assessment In reviewing the client Brief, both the Cartographic and GIS Teams need ..read more

As students are find themselves in new surroundings in their next phase of life at University or College, an essential piece of kit in helping them navigate and familiarize themselves is the campus map. Indeed, a campus map may be useful to students, both current and prospective, and also general visitors, staff and even delivery companies. The map should be always welcoming and informative, and aid navigation around the site. The map base will usually be street level, dependent on the size of the campus area and the spread of buildings, but also needs to be sufficient to show access between d ..read more

With nearly 10,000 Parishes in England (according to the Department for Communities and Local Government), many of us come into contact with a Parish or Town Council at some point in our lives.  The role they play in our community varies but they are often responsible for the maintenance of markets, parks, playgrounds, allotments, litter bins, public toilets, village halls as well as being statutory consultees on local planning applications.  Parish and Town Councils have traditionally used a large format printed map, perhaps within a display noticeboard, usually positioned at a key ..read more

We’ve been in the cartography business for almost 60 years, and cartography as a subject has piqued interest for centuries, from the earliest navigators around the world. But how does one give it a more practical context and definition? We thought we’d unpack this for you. How do you define cartography? Cartography can be defined as the practice or study of map making. To further explain, the art of cartography and therefore the work of the cartographer allows us to understand the geographic landscape around us through a principle of mathematical scale, graphical representation and associated ..read more

The definition of the world ‘illustrated’: – ‘to provide with visual features intended to explain or decorate’ When we look at the literal meaning of ‘illustrated’, it’s obvious why so many commissions for tourist attractions and visitor destinations use this form of map. The illustrated approach can bring a subject area to life, providing the user with a unique visual experience through the use of interesting graphics. This cartographic design can also help enormously with the fundamental purposes of a map – orientation and navigation. Let’s take a quick look at how illustrated maps use this ..read more