What are the Ten uses of maps
Answers
. Simplify complex patterns
Data is beautiful, and geographic data is even more visual and pattern oriented than most. These characteristics are lost when the data is contained in spreadsheets, charts and graphs that are designed for words and numbers. Geography doesn’t downplay the importance of numerical or textual information, it just uses maps as the basis to explore this information further.
2. Gaining better insight
80% of data now has a location component. By integrating static and geo-spatial data in a dynamic map you create a heightened viewpoint for analysis. And when integrated with Business Intelligence (BI), complex information from multiple sources can be incorporated into an easy-to-understand view that drives better insight, allowing users to make better decisions. In short, seeing information plotted on a map can be a catalyst for great insight.
3. A journey of discovery
Creating an inspiring outlook fuels a journey of discovery. Through grouping locations, or by being able to drill down further into a specific location, maps encourage further discovery and interaction. When the success of a BI project relies, to some extent, on the engagement of its users, allowing this sense of adventure incites a greater curiosity.
geographic visualisation
(Take a closer look at the maps featured above)
4. Adding vital context
We all know that statistics are good at showing you ‘this versus that.’ However, that often overlooks a more important question… ‘Is the difference really worth worrying about?’. There are times when businesses can become obsessed by something that’s statistically insignificant, or for data teams to overlook key variables because they don’t understand the context of the problem they are trying to solve. Geography is great at putting this context in place.
5. Creating conversation
“Hey, look at this!” It’s amazing what a new insight can spark. Sharing new findings and perspective encourages collaboration. Collaboration leads to conversation. And before you know it, you are asking all the right questions of your data!
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6. Tell better tales
Any story teller knows that to engage an audience they have to set the scene and help the reader to relate to the key characters. And often the most important part of a story isn’t what happened, but where it happened. The important stories that numbers tell often involve location, so making user the user identifies with this story is important. Using maps and geo-data allows the tale to unfold further.
7. Change your perspective
Arguments become a lot more persuasive when you add ‘where’ to the ‘what’ and the ‘why’. Visuals can be compelling – the story that maps envisage helps your data tell the stories that can help you change peoples minds.