ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines that the detailed and rich conceptual setting that has, for decades, underpinned cartography and helped shape what it is that we do and how we strive to achieve excellence in design. Cartographers are aware of a multitude of design related debates and have learnt to adopt what works and reject what does not often through innovation but with a focus to communicate something specific to a defined audience. R. W. Mylne was a Civil Engineer and Architect and knew that a detailed geological map was essential for informing major public works such as improved water supply and sewerage systems for London. M. T. Gastner and M. E. J. Newman outlined the holy grail of population density equalizing cartograms. This fascinating schematic maps the most influential internet domains and people onto the Tokyo Metro map. Examples of good web maps are rare but this map by the New York Times is an exception.
