Map Generalization

Synonyms

Generalization

Definition

Map generalization is the name of the process that simplifies the representation of geographical data to produce a map at a certain scale with a defined and readable legend. To be readable at a smaller scale, some objects are removed; others are enlarged, aggregated and displaced one to another, and all objects are simplified. During the process, the information is globally simplified but stays readable and understandable.

The smaller the scale, the less information is given per square kilometer. Conversely, the larger the scale, the more detailed is the area mapped for the same map size. For a given size of map sheet, nearly the same quantity of information is given for different scales, either privileging the density of field information (for larger scale) or the spatial extension (for smaller scale).

This process is used both in manual and digital cartography.

Main Text

Generalisation can be first defined by means of graphical constraints...