How to Design Graphing Maps
- 1). Gather content for the graphing maps such as timelines, stats, facts and any references, Verify all information. A graphic map designer must be able to back up information.
- 2). Sketch out a rough flowchart of the information you want to include. Use arrows to show how they interact and adjust as needed in order to create an understandable format.
- 3). Create a thematic style including a color code before you begin creating visual graphics. Color is important to use in defining content. The more complex the graphic, the more confused your user will be. Color will help to group information into categories. If illustrating a battle map of World War II, for example, show Allies in one color and Axis in another.
- 4). Use insets to add layers of information. If creating a city map, use an inset to show the city location within a state. Use an inset within a tint box to provide statistics. If you're doing a graphic about the planets, design an information box with a pointer to each planet. Use an inset box to show scale. Show each planet's size in descending scale order. Use a contrasting color to set off each inset box. If you're showing a sequence about how a plane crashed, number each inset or information box in chronological order.
- 5). Incorporate photos into your graphic map. For example, you are showing the evolution of a new city museum. Within your map graphic, show a sequence of museum construction photos in dated chronological order. Include a couple of photos of the museum's most popular exhibits. Your map will locate the museum within the city. An inset can show the museum's interior layout. A fact box inset can list statistics, contact information, admission and hours.
- 6). Open your favorite graphic program and create the design using the thematic approach. If your design is linear, start at the top left corner, move to the right, and then down to the bottom left corner in a "Z" format. If the design is concentric, place the most important information in the center of the page.
- 7). Include references and URLs for more information. Be sure to use a north/south directional indicator and a scale. In general, round off numbers in a graphic. Add your credit line, copyright information if applicable and the date of publication.
