NACIS 2016

Cartography is often cited as the perfect fusion of art and science. The quality of a map is only as good as the data that was used to create it and as understandable as the visual characteristics that are applied to this data. In this workshop we will use Global Mapper to introduce some of the basic principles of GIS data management and processing and follow the workflow from data acquisition or creation to cartographic rendering.  Along the way we will demonstrate elements of both vector and raster data processing including data editing and cropping, imagery manipulation, thematic rendering, labeling, and ultimately map layout and publication. We will also explore the integration of readily available 3D data for contour generation as well as topographic or bathymetric visualization. Finally we will incorporate the various elements and datasets into a what-you-see-is-what-you-get layout framework in preparation for web, print, or geospatial PDF publication.

Learn to map data on OpenStreetMap - or help contribute if you already know how!

We will teach, provide tracing guides, and talk about how the data created using OSM helps humanitarian organizations and local communities make informed decisions about aid decisions around the globe. Given the former, we are choosing specific places that need data so we can help people out as much as possible.

So, whether a newbie or an expert, come have fun with us!

Please bring your laptop - and a mouse if you happen to have one (it's okay if you don't).

GeoJSON and TopoJSON have both emerged as major file formats for JavaScript-based mapping. The popular programming language was introduced in 1995 to make web pages more interactive and did not originally facilitate the reading of files. JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) developed over the past decade as a fast method of data input. GeoJSON is a particular variation of JSON for geographic data. TopoJSON, or Topological JSON, encodes polygons as arcs and significantly reduces file sizes. The workshop examines how these files can be manipulated and displayed using popular Application Programmer Interfaces (APIs). Examples expand upon the existing code for the Mapping in the Cloud book. All participants will create their own webhosting account and upload files from the book's web page.

Please bring your own Windows or Macintosh laptop with Firefox or Chrome browser to participate in this workshop.