tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2582124947210486019.post4054518473212947882..comments2024-03-28T08:18:47.657-04:00Comments on random notes: geographer-at-large: Map of the Week 10-17-2011: Gridded Population Cartogram of ChinaMap Monkeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799927167426727749noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2582124947210486019.post-1158846677537131102011-10-17T12:08:15.967-04:002011-10-17T12:08:15.967-04:00I think the addition of the grid is quite helpful ...I think the addition of the grid is quite helpful as it clearly indicates distortion. It also produces an interesting almost 3d effect. <br /><br />As Prof. Maantay points out, the scale of your data really affects the mapping product. I also found that the actual cartogram algorithm can severely alter the appearance of the map. The Cartogram Geoprocessing Tool (available on the ESRI website for use with ArcMap) has variable known as the "factor to smooth original density." If the factor is assigned a low number, distortion is extreme while a high value produces a map with minimal distortion. One could create a deceptive map by tweaking this variable. It may be a good idea to include the distortion factor somewhere in the map's marginalia so map readers can make an informed decision.gmculphttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10210345706722620940noreply@blogger.com