One of the most valuable graphics in the planner's toolbox is the scale comparison. However, producing such graphics can be a tedious process. A web-based tool utilizing Google Maps seeks to make cartographic “mixtures” much easier to produce.
Henry Grabar looks at MapFrappe, "Kevin Thompson's cartographic mixing engine." The site lets users outline any location on a Google Map and view that outline overlaid on a comparison map that retains the scale of the original shape.
"Once you get tired of outlining your own interests -- your walk to work in London, or Buckingham Palace on your block -- you can check out Drew's MapFrappe blog, which has hundreds of preset outlines to choose from." The site even lets you generate a permanent URL of the comparison to direct others to, or bookmark for later use.
Read the full story: Compare Cities, Streets and Other Shapes With This Cartographic Mixing Machine
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One Hundred Miles
County of Mendocino
planning NEXT
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
Montrose County
Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA)
The Pocatello Development Authority