Harmonisation of thematic maps in the European Union -setting up different types of environmental analytical maps

摘要

Map-based communications (Cauvin et al, 2007) have a very important role to play at the present time; they are almost the only tools available for publishing and translating spatial data in a graphical system to interested parties in various public spheres. A map is a good tool for visualising data, and it plays a supporting role in decision making (Quodverte, 2005) and in the understanding of water-related problems. Nevertheless, maps do not always meet the requirements of the different types of users (decision-makers, experts, general public) and they may not be satisfactory for undertaking the relevant spatial analyses. Often the message does not come through correctly because the cartographic rules and visual variables (Bertin, 1967) are improperly used, and the exigencies of those targeted, specific public spheres are not considered when the map is being created.