The Map Viewing Environment: A Significant Factor in Cartographic Design

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Abstract
The effectiveness of the map viewing experience is a function of the map viewing environment, the knowledge and motivation of the viewer, and the design and presentation of the graphic image. The paper map to be read by the viewer in full control of the viewing environment is the traditional focus of the cartographer. Because maps are now seen in a diversity of environments on a wide range of media, cartographers and presenters of maps need to give more attention to the map viewing environment. The viewing environment is important in terms of the viewer's control of the situation, the time available to view the graphic, the legibility of the graphic image, the expectations of the viewer and the ability to sequence a presentation. The way the map is presented to the viewer has a direct impact on the effectiveness of the map reading experience. A series of questions is offered to alert the designer and/or presenter to the constraints that will be imposed on the map viewer in any given environment.

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