ABSTRACT
Many people print the map and instructions after finding a route online, for example, using Google Maps. Geographic researchers often want a large paper map that can be annotated in the field. Beyond navigation, maps, especially thematic maps, are found in books and newspapers to illustrate and explain spatial information. Through the centuries, printing technology has changed and maps have been printed from woodblocks, metal engravings, lithography, and offset lithography, and change continues by now allowing 3D printing. Since the advent of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), there has been increased emphasis on exploration, analysis and visualization of data on screen and less on the presentation of data in printed map form. The cartographer must consider how the map will be viewed when beginning the design process, as the particular needs or expectations of the user may require printed or electronic media, or both to be met.
