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Dot Distribution Mapping

Dot mapping involves placing small dots on a base map to show the spatial distribution or density of a geographical phenomenon. It provides an effective way to show relative variation in spatial density, though cannot determine precise numerical values. Key design considerations for dot mapping include randomly placing dots as close to the real distribution as possible, determining appropriate dot values and sizes through trial and error to avoid dots being too large, small, or merging together, and following conventions like having 2-3 dots in low density areas and selecting easy to understand dot values.

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Angel Tsui
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35 views1 page

Dot Distribution Mapping

Dot mapping involves placing small dots on a base map to show the spatial distribution or density of a geographical phenomenon. It provides an effective way to show relative variation in spatial density, though cannot determine precise numerical values. Key design considerations for dot mapping include randomly placing dots as close to the real distribution as possible, determining appropriate dot values and sizes through trial and error to avoid dots being too large, small, or merging together, and following conventions like having 2-3 dots in low density areas and selecting easy to understand dot values.

Uploaded by

Angel Tsui
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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DOT DISTRIBUTION MAPPING

- Requires a base map to show the borderlines, where small dots are placed
- Use small dots as symbols to show spatial distribution or density of a
geographical phenomenon
- An effective way of showing the relative variation in spatial density but
cannot precisely determine the numerical values of density

Design issues for dot mapping:


1. Placement of dots
Place dots as close to the real distribution as possible, randomly placed by
computer programs, the irregular pattern of dots gives a more realistic look in
comparison to a uniform pattern
2. Selection of dot values and size
Trial and error experiments are required to determine appropriate dot value
A dot value that is too large will yield very few dots and patterns of
distribution will not be visible
A dot value that is too small will yield too many dots difficult in identifying
whether it is accurate or overstatement
A dot size that is too large will merge together making it hard to read and give
an impression of excessive density (messy)
A dot size that is too small will make the distribution appear sparse and
insignificant

Convention for dot mapping


- Dot value and dot size can be altered to change the appearance of a map.
- Dot value = numerical value (magnitude)
- Dot size = physical space occupied by the dot
- There should be 2-3 dots in areas of low density (try to avoid 0)
- Select dot values that is easy to understand (whole numbers)
- Dot mapping by computerized methods involves interactive, experimental
and subjective decisions

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