GIS output - maps, charts, tables
 

map purpose (uses of a map) - navigation, data storage (e.g. forest inventory), geographic communication, aid in decision-making
 

types of maps - general reference (planimetric & topographic), thematic (to illustrate spatial relations & patterns: soils, forest inventory, income)
 

map components

	"map proper", bounded by neatline, geo-reference grid (UTM and/or graticule)
	title, date, author, legend, direction (north), scale
	symbology, annotation
	projection, datum, inset map

generalization (as discussed before) - selection, simplification, displacement, smoothing
 

map design

	consider how a map is viewed - title, spatial patterns, legend, peripheral data
	consider map purpose - general reference vs. thematic
	balance - arrangement of elements
	hierarchy - perceived importance relative size (map vs. other elements, symbols on the map) colour (dark / bright colours standout) location (eyes drawn to centre of page) figure-ground relationship - for important features and distinguish between land-water contrast - how distinguishable are the map features (done with colour, brightness, pattern, line weight, font size, etc.)
	Do's use a small number of 'related colours' better to use different shades of few colours 'pre-made' colour ramps use complimentary colours - gradual change for quantitative - distinct change for qualitative   use few font types, better to vary font size and 'boldness', also use simple font types   annotation should be horizontal (or vertical or follow feature)   use plain colours / patterns to fill large areas   use hierarchy to clearly communicate your intent (important elements should standout)   remember title, 'map' and legend are most important (supporting data should be muted) title should be meaningful 'map' should be "front & centre" legend 'supports' map and should not 'dominate', also needs to be clear (no filenames)   if using a scale bar, include units
	Do Not (Avoid) inappropriate colours (red associated with danger, blue associated with calm or water) overlap symbols and annotation place annotation (e.g. place names) across important line work

choropleth maps

thematic map that classifies a quantitative value and symbolizes it using a colour or shading scheme

"non-map" outputs

	cartograms - true locations often sacrificed to enhance spatial relations (subway map, relative size of objects-city populations)
	3-D representation - surfaces
	animations bye bye Bowen Island around Bowen Island thru' Bowen Island, thru2

media

	paper - static, long-lived
	computer monitor - dynamic and short-lived
	web-based - dynamic and interactive