neographic

Neographic is a term found in some scholarly and professional discussions as an adjective related to neography—the practice of recording, presenting, or representing new phenomena, data, or ideas. The term is not widely standardized, and meanings vary by field, making it more a descriptor of approach than a fixed definition.

Etymology: from neo- meaning new, and -graphic meaning writing or recording; the term is used in niche writing and discourse to denote an emphasis on the new or present.

In data visualization and information design, neographic describes approaches that foreground immediacy and continuously updating displays, enabling audiences to see new developments as they occur. In cartography and geospatial analysis, neographic maps emphasize contemporary processes—traffic, crowds, weather fronts, or urban growth—over traditional historical basemaps, often using time-series animation or interactive layers.

In media studies and documentary practice, neographic may refer to the aesthetic of presenting newly produced footage or events, with an emphasis on currentness, rapid synthesis, and often provisional interpretation.

Limitations and reception: Because the term lacks a fixed definition, different authors warn against over-generalization, and recommend clear context when using it.

See also: neography, data visualization, cartography.