Yellowfıelds*
Spatial Information Design

Mapping Checklist

At first glance, it can seem a little daunting knowing where to start in commissioning a map, but it is more straightforward than you might imagine. Gather information to support a comprehensive brief. To assist you in that, consider the following:

  1. Objective
    : What do you want the map(s) to achieve? Is there a business or other strategic objective(s) to be met? Are you are trying to convey a unique aspect of your business that is unlike that of your competitors.
  2. Background
    : Why do you need the map(s), or why do you think a map(s) is the solution? It’s always helpful to understand the wider context.
  3. Resources
    : What data and other information do you have that you can supply that would be of use?
  4. Brand guidelines
    : It’s important to know whether the mapping should adhere to the use of certain colours and typography so that it can be reflective of the brand. Other guidance on ‘tone of voice’ and character can be helpful to form a appropriate graphical and typographic language for the mapping so that it is bespoke and unique to you or your business.
  5. Copyright
    : All maps are derived from data sources owned by someone or some organisation. ALL maps are subject to copyright, unless clearly marked otherwise. Unfortunately, you cannot just trace over maps you obtain from online sources. There are open-sources for maps and map data, such as the OpenStreetMap project and the Ordnance Survey (UK national mapping agency). Whilst free to use in commercial applications, they must have appropriate attribution.
  6. Colour management
    : This is a rather complicated but important area of the work. Do not make judgements on colour if you are looking at drafts on a rather dated or uncalibrated device; your screen is unlikely to be showing you the true colour(s). Are you working in a colour-calibrated environment? Sometimes, only colour-calibrated hardcopy proofs provide the most accurate representation of the finished work, unless it is to be represented on screen devices only.
  1. Budget
    : How much do you have to spend? If in doubt, ask the cartographer for some guidance on this. As with any design project, the budget will dictate the approach and what is possible to achieve.
  2. Application
    : What will the map be used for, particularly the medium for presentation. Printed or digital, for example. What will be the reproduction used as that can dictate the approach. Perhaps it is to be used across several mediums; this has to be made clear so the design can allow for this flexibility.
  3. Audience
    : This is a fundamental point. Who is the map(s) aimed at? What type of audience? Think about the typical and/or common characteristics of your audience. This will make a fundamental difference to the outcome.
  4. Revisions
    : It’s normal to allow for 2–3 sets of author revisions within a price. Revisions beyond this are usually carried out at an hourly rate. It is not feasible to assume you can keep requesting changes until you think you are happy with the map. There are always multiple design responses that meet a brief, and if changes are concerned purely with style, those are not necessarily solving an issue.
  5. Other constraints
    : Is there anything else the cartographer should be made aware of? Perhaps there are other stakeholders who will have a view on the final map(s). Perhaps there are other longer term (business) scenarios that will impact upon the developed mapping.
  6. Timescales
    : When do you need it by? Be realistic here; rush jobs will always be a fact of life but rarely result in the best outcome. Allow time for proper review and feedback.
  7. Communicate
    : After you’ve written your brief, or even during the process, it can be helpful to talk it through. This may help clarify uncertainties, or reveal missing information.

Still need help? Get in touch and lets talk.