Jennifer's GIS Blog

Navigating Google Earth for this week's exercise presented a unique set of challenges. While its accessibility is undeniably a significant advantage, the platform proved to be a less-than-ideal environment for fundamental cartographic practices. We encountered difficulties in manipulating symbology with the precision necessary for effective visual communication, struggled to layer symbols in a meaningful and hierarchical way, and ultimately found it challenging to translate geographic data into compelling and narrative-driven maps. The absence of standard cartographic tools hindered our ability to craft maps that clearly and effectively convey spatial information and insights.

For this week's mapping exercise, the objective was to create isarithmic maps illustrating annual precipitation patterns across Washington state using two different visualization techniques. While one method, continuous tone, excels at depicting the full spectrum of precipitation values, I opted for hypsometric tinting. This technique involves establishing specific value breaks to create easily interpretable categories. To further enhance the map's visual appeal and clarity, I incorporated a subtle hillshade effect, providing a sense of terrain. The underlying precipitation data originates from the PRISM analytical tool, which intelligently simulates climatological reasoning, notably the strong influence of elevation on climatic variables. Consequently, hypsometric tinting proves to be a particularly effective method for presenting this type of geographically and topographically influenced data.

This week's assignment challenged us to craft a compelling choropleth map. We focused on thoughtfully selecting a color scheme that effectively communicates the data's nuances. Beyond aesthetics, the task involved designing clear and informative legends and employing appropriate data classification methods. A key component was leveraging SQL programming to refine data presentation, allowing for targeted insights. Finally, we integrated proportional or graduated symbols to add another layer of visual information, all culminating in a cohesive and insightful map. Leveraging the robust ArcPro ecosystem, I meticulously crafted my map, with only minor refinements applied to the SVG files. To enhance visual communication, I designed custom picture symbols using open-source icons sourced from https://www.svgrepo.com/ . In a subtle yet impactful modification, I augmented the wine glass icon with a simple rectangle, lending it a fuller appearance. For the map's thematic resonance, I...

This week's laboratory exercise involved applying four common data classification methods to visualize the proportion of the population aged 65 and over within Miami-Dade County. The objective was to generate a thematic map illustrating this demographic distribution and to critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each classification approach in terms of data presentation. Furthermore, we were tasked with determining the most appropriate method for disseminating this specific demographic information to a defined target audience. For my map I chose a green color ramp from a bright green to a dark sea green, which I think emphasized the differences in the different methods employed. 

In Lab 3, I gained practical experience in user-centered map design by creating a map of schools in Washington D.C.'s Ward 7 using ArcGIS Pro. The design process encompassed a thorough definition of user needs, the establishment of a compelling visual hierarchy, and the careful application of fundamental cartographic principles, notably figure-ground relationships and balance. To effectively communicate information about the schools within their geographic context, I utilized ArcGIS Pro tools, including gradient fills, graduated color palettes, and graduated symbol sizes. Additionally, I used the color tool Paletton to create my color palette; the ability within this tool to generate hues with various tones and values was incredibly helpful when selecting colors to highlight features and allow others to fade into the background.