GIS5007 - Module 1 - Map Critique

                 Module 1 was about learning how to critique maps effectively. We learn about common map principles, identify aspects of a good/bad designed map, while providing constructive feedback and evaluation. Below are the two maps I picked that are good and bar and their following synopsis. 

                    

                I really liked this well design map above for its uses of color choices to match the data being shown appropriately. The use of warm color matches the map theme of solar power resources. The map was effectively labeled (Commandment 3), does not include any extra unnecessary information (Commandment 4), and the map layout was thoughtful to allow the base US map to shine without any overlapping (Commandment 5). I also like the map’s use effectively neatline and borders. The only thing I would improve is adding borders to the legend, and adding a north arrow.

             
UWF'S R Repository
            This poorly made map misses out on Commandment 3 due to the legend not having proper labeling of units for the numbers used. Another thing is that not all the states are labeled, as most viewers won’t know which capital corresponds to which. In my opinion, the circle on the east side of the US has too much overlapping, causing readability issues. A huge change I would make is adding different colors to different sizes if we wanted to keep the circles. Another change I would make is adding pins where the capitols are on the base map. I would also like the legend to have its own neatline and borders. The title could be bigger and bolded. I would add items like data source, author, north arrow, and a scale bar. 

            I learned from this module that not every map will have every items necessary to make the "perfect map". For the process summary, there was a lot of terms like "theme" that I had to relearn. I believe every maps can easily be improved, as different viewers have different tastes. Every map evaluation should be personal and catered to your own opinions, but following the Commandments are good way to have a base universal standards for maps. 

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