If you built a data set that is well structured and is in a plain text file format, you will be able to use most, if not all, of the tools listed below to create a map from your research. To choose a platform you will want to assess:
If this is one of your first forays into digital map making, consider experimenting with multiple platforms below. You may also want colleagues to review different versions of your map to assess how well the map is communicating your ideas.
Google My Maps: Google’s mapping platform is a good way to get started with mapping. It allows for placing points manually, drawing polygons and lines, and stylizing what you map. You can also upload .csv files to populate the map.
Palladio: A suite of visualization and analysis tools designed by scholars to ask and answer research questions. See DiScho’s Palladio for Mapping handout for guidelines.
Carto: GIS cloud service that allows for free access with an educator account.
ArcGIS Online/Esri StoryMaps: Princeton provides access to AGOL and ArcGISPro. Because this is a Princeton service, it may not be available elsewhere and you may not be able to take your project with you. The library holds a StoryMaps workshop every semester.
ArcGIS Pro: As a Princeton community member, you have access to an ArcGIS Pro license. This proprietary software is deservedly viewed as a premiere platform for undertaking spatial analysis. Users may first be overwhelmed by the numbers of features and possibilities, but dedicated learning can result in powerful and informative maps. Princeton University Library holds regular workshops each semester that teach numerous skills related to the platform. ArcGIS Pro can only be used on the Windows Operating System.
QGIS: This open-source platform is preferred by some because it is not limited by proprietary restrictions. While there are experimental versions, we recommend downloading the current Long-Term Release version. Princeton University Library holds regular workshops each semester that teach numerous skills related to the platform. QGIS will work with any operating system.
Tableau: While primarily a tool for data analytics, Tableau is a common resource for creating maps. Princeton offers a Tableau license as well as training through the Center for Data Analytics and Reporting (CeDAR).
Leaflet.js: JavaScript users and others with coding experience may want to explore leaflet. Users produce interactive maps that are highly customizable.
Folium: Using the Python language, users can manipulate their data and leverage leaflet.js to produce interactive maps.