The "best of 2012" lists are just starting to spread and, already, one of the most unique collections we've come across is Caitlin Dempsey's look at the year's most interesting maps. You don't have to be a cartographer to enjoy these visualizations.
From a hypnotic respresentation of the raw power of nature to a meticulously hand-crafted geography of the United States, Dempsey's collection of the most "fascinating maps and GIS data visualizations that caught the public’s attention this year," covers a wide range of technologies, topics, and techniques.
Notable maps include the sliding scale population density of the world created by Derek Watkins and the dynamic wind map created by Fernanda Viégas and Martin Wattenberg of the site HINT.FM. The wind map was created by the leaders of Google’s “Big Picture” visualization research group as a personal art project. "The artists note on their site, 'We invent new ways for people to think and talk about data' and this wind map certainly achieved that," adds Dempsey.
FULL STORY: Six of this Year’s Most Interesting Maps
Trump Cuts Decimate Mapping Agency
The National Geodetic Survey maintains and updates critical spatial reference systems used extensively in both the public and private sectors.
New Book Shows How Geographic Technology Tackles Global Challenges
In his new book, Jack Dangermond explores the transformative impact of GIS technology in solving global challenges through spatial data, highlighting its widespread application across sectors and its potential to design sustainable futures.
Building Healthier Communities: The Role of GIS in Park Planning
Integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into park planning enhances community health by promoting physical activity, supporting mental well-being, fostering social connectedness, and addressing public health crises and climate change.
Montreal Mall to Become 6,000 Housing Units
Place Versailles will be transformed into a mixed-use complex over the next 25 years.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
DARTSpace Platform Streamlines Dallas TOD Application Process
The Dallas transit agency hopes a shorter permitting timeline will boost transit-oriented development around rail stations.
Study: 4% of Truckers Lack a Valid Commercial License
Over 56% of inspected trucks had other violations.
Chicago Judge Orders Thousands of Accessible Ped Signals
Only 3% of the city's crossing signals are currently accessible to blind pedestrians.
Philadelphia Swaps Car Lanes for Bikeways in Unanimous Vote
The project will transform one of the handful of streets responsible for 80% of the city’s major crashes.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Mt Shasta
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)