Final Project Proposal

The final project should be your highest quality visualization to date. Unlike a GIS class, you do not need to solve a problem or answer a geographic question (though good maps often do). Your goal in a Cartography class is to work on the end result -- the visual display of the information. Therefore, it is perfectly acceptable with this project to map data that has been mapped before or to work on creating a much-improved version of a disappointing map. "New" data is fine, but don't spend too much of your time sifting the numbers when you need to spend most of the time on the graphics.

There are a variety of visualization options: smooth, flip-book animation, motion and shape tweening animation, step-by-step multimedia modules, "faux" GIS (where the user gets to turn layers on and off), and any combination of the above. The one requirement is that the project is presented in Flash (as a link off your blog). You can choose to use any combination of software programs for the development (ArcMap, Illustrator, Photoshop, Google Earth, etc.) but you must use Flash as the display medium. If you want to make everything in Flash, that's alright too!

What topics can you choose from? Anything (well...if you would be embarrassed to show your grandmother, let's save that for a different time). Can you make something that links in with another class? Yes! Can you make something for work or a graduate project? Of course! Can you map something that you've been curious about or something you have simply stumbled on? Yes...yes. You could work to animate a historical event, create a tutorial on a topic that uses a map as the key element, or give a detailed overview of a location with multiple interactive map layers. Lots of options...

This week I want a proposal of your idea. ***CHANGE*** Instead of turning in your proposal this Wed in class, I'm going to ask you to email me your proposal by 5pm this Friday. That will give everyone more time to talk to me about ideas.

Here is what I'm looking for with the proposal:

In approx. 3 typed, double-spaced pages, propose an idea for your Final Project. Explain the topic, the reason you've selected it, the audience of the map(s), the type of visualization you envision, the data source (and if it has been acquired), the production steps (data processing, software, etc.), and a schedule. If you are inspired by another map, include a scan or link. Also discuss any issues/obstacles/needs you foresee.

At this point you should have a grasp as to what you can do in Flash. Go ahead and propose your ideal project (what you'd *really* like to see) and we'll discuss what is doable. My hope is that this project can be used as a key part of a growing mapping portfolio.

Questions? Send me an email or talk to me in class on Wed!