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INTRODUCTION
MAP GENERALIZATION:
THEORY, PRACTICE AND ECONOMICS
Joel L. Morrison
The University of Wisconsin-Madison
The theory of map generalization is discussed with particular reference to the
processes of simplification and classification. Both of these processes are used
extensively in computer-assisted cartography; however, a comprehensive, flexible
software package has not yet been organized from the myriad of algorithms available.
Further, systematic use of algorithms, based on the reasons for generalizing in car
tography, is not common practice. ¥hen viewed in respect to the reasons for gener
alization, the costs of using a theoretically based algorithm can easily be absorbed
in most computer-assisted cartographic situations.
Robinson and Sale in the third edition of Elements of Cartography define carto
graphic generalization as being composed of four elements. These elements or pro
cesses are simplication, classification, symbolization, and induction. They do not
claim that these four processes are independent of one another, only that they rep
resent facets of the total process of cartographic generalization which cartographers
can conveniently isolate and discuss. The definitions of these four processes by-
Robinson and Sale are not rigorous, but they are the best available.
Non-rigorous definitions are usually ignored when the cartographer interacts
with automated systems to produce a map. Therefore, it is not out-of-line to sug
gest that a non-rigorous definition of generalization and its elements is of little
or no use for the purpose of making a map with computer assistance. One can use
non-rigorous definitions only to discuss the map after a software manipulation se
quence has been selected and/or the map plotted. What is basically needed is to de
fine generalization so that the reason or purpose for making the map can aid the
cartographer in selecting the most appropriate software sequence for map production
given the structure of stored data files and the available software manipulation
sequences. To date, this luxury is not available.
The intent of this paper is to offer more rigorous definitions for the purpose
of classifying the processes involved in map generalization, to show how these pro
cesses have been and/or may be implemented in practice, and hopefully to give some
insight into the economics of generalization algorithms relative to the total map
preparation costs.
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