Cartographic Solutions

Database-driven cartography enables multiple cartographic representations from a GIS database of positionally accurate features to be symbolized using their attributes. The process is streamlined with semiautomated tools for geoprocessing, data generalization, and label placement. User-defined cartographic rules automatically generate symbology, masking, and cartographic representations of GIS features. Cartographic overrides give the cartographer freedom to express cartographic conventions or preferences outside defined rules.

Solutions to Meet Your Challenges

Cartographic publishers are realizing significant efficiencies using GIS as they move from labor-intensive, expensive, single-product-line, and time-consuming production to database-driven cartography.

• Automated tasks
• Lower map production costs
• More flexible range of products
• Higher throughput to meet publishing deadlines

Improve Your Workflow

An effective workflow provides solutions for data collection, data management, data editing, cartographic production, dissemination, and quality assurance.

Cartographic Techniques

• ArcGIS Rule-Based Text Symbol Placement
• Raster Presentation and 3D Symbols

Learn more about cartography at ESRI

• Cartographic Editing and Finishing Tools
• Cartographic Geoprocessing Tools
• Cartographic Publishing Tools
• Cartographic Representations
• Enterprise Workflows
• Generalization
• Making Better Maps with ArcGIS 9.2 [PDF]
• Usability Tools for Cartographers

Case Studies

• Collins Bartholomew [PDF]
• National Geographic Atlas of the World, Eighth Edition, Updated with GIS
• National Geographic Maps Division Helps Organizations Create Their Cartography
• Quality, Time to Market Significantly Improved with GIS at Rand McNally
• Rand McNally & Company [PDF]
• The Congressional Cartography Program Responds to United States Senate and House of Representatives with GIS
• Other case studies