Maps & Mapping

Maps are visual representations of an area that highlights relationships between different elements and objects, for example, the relationship between land and water. Maps have been useful tools since the time of the early explorers, and are still used widely today, although, in many different formats beyond a traditional paper map thanks to technological innovations.

Map retailers help customers locate the right map and travel guide to suit their needs. Some maps are specialized for activities such as bushwalking, trail walking or exploring a particular region, for example, coastal or mountainous regions. Maps are generally created to some kind of measurement ratio, however not all maps are drawn to a measurement scale – such as public transport maps. A map retailer will be able to assist in choosing the right map to suit a customer’s purpose. People planning to travel across large land masses encompassing more than one country would benefit from a political map that shows, in addition to geography, the borderlines of countries and regions. Topographic maps illustrate land elevations and geological maps show the physical surface and the characteristics of the surface.

With the advent of technology, people have gravitated toward maps that are computer generated with graphics to add greater detail and information, enabling users to zoom in or out to adjust the scale ratio to suit their needs. 3D advances in mapping also extend to the medical profession. Mapping techniques are also used in our everyday activity. Some people employ ‘mind mapping’ methods as a fast and effective graphical way of note taking. Mapping firms can provide a range mapping services such as aerial mapping, mine mapping, image processing, and even satellite mapping. There are a number of portable satellite mapping device for car travel that are also avaialble at a map retailer. There are many maps and mapping tools for many different purposes and a map retailer will assist in arming customers with a map for the right occasion, and many map retailers also trade in historical maps.