micromaps

Micromaps are a visualization technique used to display a large number of small maps, or "micro-maps," arranged in a grid. Each micro-map typically represents a specific geographic area and displays a particular data variable, such as population density, income levels, or election results. This allows for the simultaneous comparison of data across multiple geographic units and across different variables.

The primary purpose of micromaps is to enable rapid visual assessment and comparison of spatial patterns. By presenting many small maps together, viewers can quickly identify trends, outliers, and relationships that might be difficult to discern from a single, large map or from tabular data alone. The simplicity of each micro-map, often focusing on a single data point or a limited range of values, makes them easily digestible.

Micromaps are particularly useful in fields like geographic information systems (GIS), urban planning, public health, and political analysis. They facilitate the exploration of multivariate spatial data and can aid in identifying areas that share similar characteristics or exhibit particular phenomena. The effectiveness of micromaps relies on consistent design and clear labeling across all the individual maps within the grid. They are a valuable tool for understanding complex spatial information at a glance.