ArcGIS StoryMaps is a powerful digital tool that allows users to create interactive maps combined with other multimedia contexts such as text, images, and videos. StoryMaps is a useful tool especially for Digital Arts and Humanities work as it allows us to visualize complex data and narratives in a dynamic and engaging way. Below, I have outlined a step-by-step tutorial on how to use the Sidecar tool within StoryMaps. The Sidecar tool is a versatile feature that enhances your storytelling by allowing you to present multimedia content, alongside your main narrative (A map, image, video, or chart) in a structured, interactive layout. This tool is especially useful if you want to break up your information into manageable chunks, allowing you to focus on specific aspects of your main narrative. Overall, ArcGIS StoryMaps, with its Sidecar tool, offers a dynamic and interactive way to organize and present complex narratives.
Step 1
Log into ArcGIS StoryMap. Sign in using the ArcGIS organization URL. Type Carleton as the URL and then log in using your Carleton login credentials. After creating a Title, click on the plus button and choose sidecar. Choose the layout of the sidecar you prefer.
Step 2
After creating a Title, click on the plus button and choose sidecar. Choose the layout of the sidecar you prefer.
Step 3
To add an embedded map, click the “+ Add” button and click map. From there, you will be able to upload a map that you’ve already created in ArcGIS. Choose the map of your choice.
Step 4
To edit the position of your map, click on the pencil Icon. You can then choose to zoom in or out on particular parts of your map. Click save when you’re done.
Step 5
To add context, click the “+” button. You can talk about the specific part of your map. To add another slide, Click the “+” button at the bottom and repeat your steps. This will allow you to bring your map to life as you’re able to zoom into certain places and alongside the map provide contextual information.
Now that you have your sidecar, as you scroll, you’ll notice the map zooming in and out, accompanied by the supporting text.
Click here to find additional resources for getting started with StoryMaps!
Here is an online tutorial which includes how to use additional StoryMaps tools
