GIS5050 Module 2: Cartography - UWF Campus

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This week's lab assignment was a walkthrough on how to be a good cartographer and what a map layout entails in order to convey information effectively. Even if you have all the knowledge/data to get a point across, if you can't display or deliver it in a way that's understandable, it's not an effective map. Thankfully, I'm confident that I can and will continue to create meaningful and clear maps.

Screenshot of the UWF Main Campus map assignment for Module 2, Lab 2. It showcases Escambia County, FL and its major features. The main star (quite literally) is the UWF Main Campus location.

Being able to flesh out a full layout with all the key elements was very satisfying. When making the orientation map last week, I was so tempted to complete the layout despite the directions not saying to do so; however, I did follow the directions and did not get ahead of myself. So, it was cathartic this week to be able to create a complete map and have free-reign over some decisions. I largely based the layout format on the standardization that we use during work--old habits die hard and if it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? I even got to use a basemap that I don't commonly use everyday at work, the Human Geography basemap, which was nice to shake things up. Having that gray basemap really helps the features pop in comparison and draws one into the main focus, which is Escambia county and its major features, one of which is UWF itself.

Finalizing the layout and exporting the map is always rewarding, because it allows map creators the room to flex their creativity and personality while conveying a message to an audience. What a beautiful mix of art and science!

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