GIS5050 Geocoding Lab

This week we downloaded data from two different government sites and entered it into an Excel table for use in our mapping project.  After we cleaned the data we saved the table in .csv After opening a new map project and setting up the appropriate layers. We imported the table and used that to create an address locator.  Next we conducted geocoding by address matching. We were able to see some of the issues that can arise and look at different options for their resolution such as pick from map where you can maneuver around the map and find the location you feel is closes to the address you are looking for and select that as the point reference on the map for the unmatched address. Once all of this was completed a web map was created for the purpose of sharing the results.

This is the link for my map:

https://arcg.is/yWKH1

 GIS 5050 Vector Analysis Lab

This week's lab was a two part on vector analysis.  We examined geodatabases, how to create them and change the default geodatabase to one of you own selection.  We also learned how to use the select by location and by attribute functions.  We touched on different functions with the attribute table including how to add fields and perform calculations with the attribute table functions. 

We examined buffers and overlay and a variety of different selections available within those categories depending on the need of the individual project.

Our map final map this week was focused on possible campsite location based on variable regarding the proximity to roads, water features and conservation areas. In my final map I chose to use the erase overlay to map out the possible camp site locations by removing the areas that overlap within the feature classes. For example conservation areas were "erased" from my possible campsite locations.  

For my map layout I tried to keep crisp lines and a uncluttered canvas.  I utilized both the rectangle and dynamic text features.  I chose a color scheme for my campsites with boldest color representing the largest areas. I also included a basic north arrow, a kilometer scale for distance and Garamond font for the title.

Below is  my newest map creation:

I still have a long way to go in skill development but it's a start.

 

 GIS5050 Map Projections Lab 

This week we explored the concepts of map distortions when using different map projections. It is interesting to note that all map projections involve some level of distortion. This was illustrated in this lab exercise when we switched between three different map projections of the state of Florida and noted how the position within the map shifted slightly in each projection.  It was again illustrated when examining the variance in  the calculated area of specific counties (in Florida) in each of the three projections. Below is a picture of the resulting map.

To better under stand refer to the table in the lower right portion of the map. 

We also continue to develop our visual map making skills.  In this map I kept the individual county colors the same for each section so as not to confuse the user.  At the same time I selected an array of very different colors to make it easy to pick out each individual county.

  

First Cartography Lab Map

 GIS5050 Cartography Lab. Today I completed my first cartography lab map.  I was excited about it after reading the rich history of cartography and the first recorded maps. Maps not only make the big world more connected but also act as a way to pass knowledge down generation to generation. There are so many things to analyze when making a really good map. You have to consider your audience, the layout, data source and more. It is a complex process. For this lab we needed to create a large map with a smaller inset map and include all the basics such as a legend, scale bar, north arrow, title, preparer and data source information and a logo.

Here is my diamond in the rough - 

It needs a lot of polishing but meets the criteria. It's easy to read and has all the basic elements. I'm looking forward to honing my cartography skills to create more dynamic maps.