Geomap: layering on graphic variables on maps...

[mginda]

Geomap is a weird visualization in that it is two-for-one: a proportional symbol map AND a geospatial network layout. We do not really have a way to distinguish this to a user in the graphic symbol or graphic variable interfaces.

For a proportional symbol map, we do not need an edge data set, but it is presented to a user. A simple flag that indicates required might suffice, but it doesn't feel like the best solution. We call the symbols nodes, even though that would not be how I might discuss them in a presentation. The language works for networks, but not for a proportional Symbol.

Another approach is to think of graphic symbols for maps as layers that can build on top of each other, depending on the goal. A proportional symbol map overlayed on a chloropleth map is an example. You may want multiple types of symbol shapes other than circles. How can these maps be extended or built up by a user is something we may want to consider.

[bherr2]

I don't think there is anything useful we can do about this short term, but the ideas here could inform how we work on MAV 2.0.