Week 3 lab's focus was applying cartographic design principles. We were to make a map based on the need of the of the user as well and apply the design principles such as visual hierarchy, contrast, and balance. Learning to create an inset map was also one of the objectives.
The map created was to show the three different types of schools in Washington D.C. that are in Ward 7. One of the key steps was to clip Ward 7 shapefile with the school shapefile. This allows us to have a shapefile of just the schools in the 7th ward and allows us to adjust the symbology for just those schools. Besides adjusting the symbology for the schools, also adjusted the symbology for the roads to clean up the map. The various neighborhoods were then labeled to help make those clear. Having two data frame layers allows for the designer to use an inset map to help show the location of the main map.
Once all the elements were added and adjusted, the next thing was to create balance within the map. I tried to keep elements well spaced to keep from one area seeming heavy. I also added a background color to the inset map so that would stand out more and not leave too much white on the map. By adding color, it created a contrast which helps the user reference the map to see where exactly the 7th ward is in regards to Washington D.C.
This lab forced me to really thing about what goes into good map design. It is easy to see how certain principles can be overlooked but it is amazing how implementing the design principles changes the map. Hopefully as course goes on, I continue to master incorporating these principles.
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