In case the embed is wonky, here’s the direct link to the map’s web app. Also, here’s the link to my Google Sheets dataset.
My goal was to make my map as clean as possible while still working within my skill range — something that ended up being a little harder than I thought! However, in the end, I feel like ArcGIS Online was relatively simple to use for this task. I decided to make the points look like pins, and I made them light pink because I love the color. I changed their size depending on the number of days per week I go to the specified location. The buildings are outlined in blue to make them stand out from the pins and the background. I wanted to put images of each location in the popups, but I couldn’t figure out how to make the images unique to the location, so I ended up not being able to do that. I did, however, try to make the popups look a little sleeker than the default by removing extraneous information and cleaning up the title to be solely the name of the place.
For DH projects that are particularly space- or place-based, I can’t imagine a better use of the data than making it into some kind of web-mapping project. The interactivity that the medium provides is perfect for bringing in potential users in an accessible, digital way. Plus, it’s able to balance information with presentation (e.g. having a slick, clean map, but being able to click on points to reveal more).
In terms of ArcGIS in particular, I believe (although I have very limited experience!) that the program is able to adequately balance usability with power. I found it pretty easy to pick up the basics, but I also see that there’s a lot more to do with it that I haven’t even touched on yet. Even so, for what I wanted to use it for, it was more than enough! I’d love to explore it more in the future.
4 thoughts on “Lab 6 – Campus Map”
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Hi Eliza, I really like your map! The pink pin-style points look super cute, and adjusting their size based on the number of days is very intuitive. I especially appreciate that you labeled each building’s function right next to the points—it really makes the information clear at a glance. Your pop-ups are also very sleek and concise, yet they provide comprehensive details.
Hi Eliza, great work on your map! I really appreciate your thoughtful approach in using pins to mark buildings and labeling their functions next to them. This method makes the information very clear and easy to understand. I completely agree with you that web mapping has great potential for DH projects, and ArcGIS Online is a powerful, beginner-friendly tool for digital humanities research.
Your map looks great! I like how you kept things simple. sizing the pins base on how often you go there was a good idea. I know popups can be tricky, but you did a good job making them clear. Web mapping is such a cool way to share location-based projects!
Hi Eliza! Thank you for your interesting post! Your reflection on using ArcGIS Online is insightful and demonstrates a strong engagement with both the technical and design aspects of web mapping. I appreciate your attention to detail in making the map visually appealing while maintaining clarity. The use of light pink pins and blue outlines shows thoughtful contrast, and your efforts to refine the popups reflect an understanding of user experience. It’s great to see you recognize the potential of digital mapping for spatially-focused DH projects!