FAQ
Q: What expertise does Cartographic.com bring to map production?
Our staff consists of highly-skilled GIS, remote sensing, and cartography experts who produce the highest quality maps by leveraging the latest technologies. With over 80 years of professional cartography experience, we are ready to create a custom mapping solution that successfully communicates your vision.
Q: Who do we work with?
Cartopgraphic.com provides custom mapping services for individuals and organizations of all sizes.
Corporations
- Natural Resources & Energy
- Agriculture & Aquaculture
- Communications
- Transportation
- Blue Economy
- Real Estate
- Consulting
- Insurance
- Shipping
- Mining
- Utilities
- Legal
Others
- Outdoor Recreation
- Vineyards/Wine Maps
- Entertainment Industry
- Antique Reproduction
- Publishers
- Education
- Tourism
- Artists
Non-Profits/NGOs
- Environmental Conservation & Stewardship Organizations
- Lake Associations
Institutions
- Federal Government & Military
- Local, State & National Governments
- Local, State & National Parks
- Academic Institutions
- Public Libraries
- Museums
Q: What is the custom map consultation process?
Making a map is largely a human endeavor, so shortly after submitting a complete Custom Mapping Inquiry Form, you will be contacted by an Cartographic.com representative to review your specifications and vision.
Typically, you will be provided with a rough draft of your map(s) to confirm the geographic extents and general layout. A quote will follow soon thereafter for your approval. Upon pre-payment or down payment terms, our cartographers will prepare a first draft of your map and submit it to you for your editorial input. While we do have map editors on staff, we know our clients are often the best resource for edits and revisions throughout the mapmaking process.
This iterative editing generally covers three rounds of drafts with the third draft being considered final. Additional changes and subsequent drafts are always welcome, but those will likely need additional quoting to account for added production costs. We find that most maps are made to everyone’s satisfaction in three drafts.
Q: Where does the custom map data come from?
Some geospatial data is public domain, some is proprietary. At Cartographic.com, we have access to a vast library of data that can be leveraged for your project. To keep your costs lower, we will first attempt to use freely available data, and then suggest other data sources if necessary. If you have your own data to include in your project, we request to review it prior to providing a quote. Any data you may provide will be held in strict confidentiality.
Q: How long does it take to make a custom map?
Project durations vary based on the complexity of the project. With our vast portfolio of work, we can often leverage existing maps to expedite the process. Fully customized maps that must be built from scratch often require a timeline that is multiple months long. Smaller projects can usually be turned around in a week or two. Once we know the scope and scale of your project, we can provide a more accurate estimation of the production timeline.
Q: What formats are available for custom maps?
Cartographic.com can deliver your map in several formats. Our print-on-demand services offer one-sided sheet printing on a variety of print media (synthetic, paper, canvas, etc.). We can also provide lamination services in desired.
If you are wanting your map delivered as a digital image/file, restrictions may apply if the data therein is proprietary. If you wish to own the live, editable file or the copyright to your map please keep in mind that such ownership may incur additional costs.