When it comes to maps—a technology that is 4,000 years old—two completely contradictory things are true: Nothing has changed. And everything has changed.
But a modern map is also a dynamic window that allows zooming in and out, adding or removing layers of data to make a richer picture or focus on specific details. Maps communicate complexity, reveal patterns, and help people understand.For the first time in 4,000 years, maps are not just a graphic presentation of data but also an analytical and visualization tool for problem-solving. Consider:
The capabilities of today’s digital maps can be traced to the powerful map-making and data management tools known as geographic information systems . Initially envisioned by British geographer Roger Tomlinson, GIS makes complex information easier to understand and analyze, by organizing it geographically and in multiple layers. Modern GIS software can do this with vast quantities and types of data.
Mapping has been waiting for this moment – waiting to take advantage of computers and the cloud and the way information gets stored in instantly accessible databases.You can always update a map with new data. You can compare and see June versus May, you can do the same with this June versus last June, in seconds.