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High quality maps always contain essential map elements that help the reader understand and correctly interpret the information displayed. The main types of map elements include scales, legends, logos, north arrows, and map notes. Logos, north arrows, and map notes are located in the $LOJICMAP directory and are included in the LOJIC Data Documentation. However, knowing what map elements should be put on a map can be confusing. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance on when and what type of map elements should be placed on a map.
At a minimum, every LOJIC map should contain the following elements:
- scale
- north arrow
- title
- LOJIC logo and your agency’s logo
- author of the map
- date map was made
- LOJIC data copyright note.
Even a working map that only you intend to use, should contain all of the above information. Maps created for only one task very frequently are wanted by others. The above map elements must be present on all LOJIC maps so that they can be used properly. A legend should also be placed on a map when symbology needs to be explained to the map reader.
Knowing which map notes to use depends on two factors: how much space is available to place map notes and what LOJIC data is portrayed on the map. These notes are in the $LOJICMAP directory. When space is limited, use the LOJIC copyright statement called "BRIEFCPR.TXT". When space is available, add "PTDRESTR.TXT" and "LIABILIT.TXT". When space is not a limiting factor, use "README.TXT". That note is a composite of "BRIEFCPR.TXT", "PTDRESTR.TXT" and "LIABILIT.TXT". A copyright statement must be on all maps portraying LOJIC data. That includes maps that are created in ArcView or Arc/INFO directly accessing the LOJIC database, an image of a map or part of a map created in LOJIC that is incorporated into a report or other document, and a graphic that contains features that are traced from a LOJIC map either manually or digitally.
Certain data layers often used on maps may need special notes that provide important information about the layer like how it was created and how the data should be used. The following table shows what map notes should be used with some of these data layers.
| Layer or Library |
 |
Map Note |
PTD |
|
NMAS00.TXT |
Property |
|
PMD.TXT |
FIRM |
|
FIRM.TXT |
Soils |
|
SOIL.TXT |
Zoning |
|
ZONING.TXT |
Imagery |
|
IMAGE98.TXT |
Real Estate Master File |
|
REMF.TXT |
Sewer |
|
SEWER.TXT |
Maps are powerful tools that can help you do your job better. Remember, however, that data can tell the reader only so much and these map elements are required to tell the reader the whole story.
If you have any questions about map elements, please do not hesitate to contact Jane Poole at 540-6435.
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