Kaardistama

Kaardistama is an Estonian verb meaning to map, chart, or outline something. The core sense is to create a representation of spatial, data, or conceptual relationships using a map, diagram, or schema. It is a productive verb form derived from kaart, meaning map, with the -istama suffix that yields the sense “to map.” Related nominal and participial forms include kaardistamine (the act of mapping) and kaardistatud (mapped).

The term is used across disciplines that require representation of information. In geography and cartography, kaardistamine refers to the process of producing maps of territories, resources, or populations. In urban planning, it describes mapping infrastructure, land use, or zoning. In data science and information design, it denotes mapping data relationships, networks, workflows, or user journeys. The verb can also be used figuratively to describe planning or outlining a course of action, such as mapping out a strategy, process, or risks.

In practical use, kaardistamine often involves data collection, spatial or conceptual analysis, and the creation of a visualization or diagram that communicates the intended structure. It supports decision-making by making dependencies, boundaries, and priorities explicit.

See also: kartograafia (cartography), kaardistamine (the act of mapping), kaardistatud (mapped).