The power of visualization choices: Different images of patterns in space

Abstract

Maps are representations of the world. They offer summaries or simplifications of data that are collected, attempt to reveal unknowns, to simplify and communicate complex spatial phenomena. Numerous decisions are made in the process of creating a map. Seemingly inconsequential variations of cartographic design decisions offer many ways to illustrate this process. We use an open dataset related to the United Nations Gender Inequality Index to demonstrate design decision points and their output. As governments are increasingly making data open to the public, and map-making tools and software are now more accessible online, these considerations are important both for those making and reading maps online.