MAPresso is a free Java applet for unclassed choropleth maps and cartograms.

Avoiding the problem of fixing (optimal or suitable) class limits, this approach uses a continuous-tone scheme. With the possible exception of extreme values which can fall into two "classes" on either side of the value range, each region has its own specific color value - only restricted by the color resolution of the output device.
In the case where an important threshold exists (e.g. 50% "yes" in vote results) there can be set a class boundary for two separate color transitions. You can also produce bivariate or trivariate choropleth maps: Two and three variables can be visualized simultaneously as bivariate or trivariate choropleth maps using a special color scheme. New: maps with nominal data.

In addition, the areas can be distorted to create a continuous area cartogram. It's an implementation of the algorithm proposed by Dougenik, Chrisman and Niemeyer (1985). Data values can be also visualized as circle cartograms (Dorling 1996), cf. Dorling applet.

An additional feature allows a thematic generalization of the map by a simple polygon filter (see Herzog, 1995). The implemented filter is based on a Markov process.

Data values can be provided as text files. In addition, the user can enter his own data via the clipboard into a text field.

Display: interactive choice of color values, setting of class values; one or two color transitions.

Geometry: psc-format, ArcInfo shape files, circle data.

Output can be an encapsulated PostScript file (EPS).

Availability

MAPresso is free. If you'd like to integrate MAPresso into your website contact the author.

Credits

The development of MAPresso was financially supported by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office. Hans Steffen (Section of Regional Analysis and Thematic Cartography/ThemaKart) made significant contributions to the conceptional development of the applet and to its integration into statistical applications.

Literature

Herzog, Adrian (2003): "Developing Cartographic Applets for the Internet", in: Michael P. Peterson (ed.): Maps and the Internet, Vol. 1, ISBN: 0-08-044201-3, 468pp., p. 115-128.

Dorling, Daniel (1996): Area Cartograms: Their Use and Creation, Concepts and Techniques in Modern Geography (CATMOG), 59,

Herzog, Adrian (1993): Die Polygonfilterung als Methode zur automatischen Generalisierung von statistischen Oberflächen, Diss. Universität Zürich, Geoprocessing Reihe, Vol. 20, Zürich: Geogr. Institut der Universität (Abstract / Zusammenfassung).

Dorling, Daniel (1996): Area Cartograms: Their Use and Creation, Concepts and Techniques in Modern Geography (CATMOG), 59

Dykes, Jasond and David Unwin (1996): Maps of the Census: a Rough Guide.

Dougenik, James. A., Nicholas R. Chrisman and Duane R. Niemeyer (1985): "An Algorithm to Construct Continous Area Cartograms", Professional Geographer, 37 (1), 75-81.

Steffen, Hans (2003): "Die kartographischen Analyse- und Visualisierungssysteme von ThemaKart beim Bundesamt für Statistik (BFS).

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Features, creating cartograms | FAQ

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How to integrate MAPresso in a Web page: Applet parameters, files

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