Map Development and Generalization

Abstract The map development process can entail drawing maps, by hand, from field-collected coordinates or distances and directions. The map development process can also entail creating maps through the use of a geographic information system or online mapping program. One challenge in the map development process involves the quality of the map: one map developed for a publication or for some official (perhaps contractual) use is generally expected to be of higher quality than other maps developed simply for short-term utilitarian uses. This chapter discusses issues related to the map development process, how maps might be drawn by hand or with a computer, and why the generalization of mapped features may be necessary.