Cartographic Design Using ArcGIS 9

Description

As more people begin making maps using GIS software, they need to understand cartographic design principles that will help them create maps that are clear and convincing to those who will read them. This course discusses key design issues and teaches practical guidelines for creating maps that are well suited to their display medium and that speak effectively to their audience. Students learn fundamental design principles and practice with the ArcGIS Desktop tools for creating high-quality maps.

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for experienced ArcGIS Desktop users who want to create maps that communicate effectively.

Learn How To

• Understand fundamental cartographic principles
• Design maps for different purposes and audiences
• Export maps to different formats
• Create and modify map text
• Create special text effects such as callouts, shadows, and halos
• Understand principles of color theory and how they affect map symbolization
• Choose appropriate symbols for point, line, and polygon features
• Create custom symbols and color schemes
• Create custom map legends

To complete course exercises, you need the following software:

• ArcGIS 9.1 for Desktop, ArcGIS 9.2 for Desktop, or ArcGIS 9.3 for Desktop (ArcView, ArcEditor, or ArcInfo)

• Big Picture Design: Designing for map purpose and medium; Linking layout to map purpose; Planning a layout; Exporting and moving maps
• Type Basics: Understanding fonts; Changing the size of text; Type effects
• Effective Type in Map Design: Strategies for map text; Labels as symbols; Label placement
• Color Basics: Perceptual dimensions; Perceptual color systems; Mixing colors
• Color Decisions for Mapping: Color schemes for maps; Constraints on color selection; Color production
• Creating Custom Symbols: Point symbols; Line and area symbols; Wrapping up visual variables
• Customizing Map Elements: Wise wording; Designing map legends; Designing marginal elements

Students should have completed Learning ArcGIS Desktop or have equivalent knowledge.