A map is a great way to present statistical data. It allows summarizing complex and important information into a clear and compact presentation. Maps are accessible for many reasons: people understand maps (at least, think they do) and people like maps because they attract attention and brighten up presentation.

But maps also have their limits and mapping statistical data correctly is not an easy task. The first objective of map design is to deliver the right message. Mapping is conducting all the elements of a map in order to best convey its message to its audience. Conducting maps concerns making choices on the mapping method, the aggregation level, the level of statistical areas, the type of data and the graphic variables to be used.

The ESPON 2013 Database project has developed a Technical Report that gives some guidance on all these choices that have to be made. This report is not a formal cartography book but allows everyone to understand easily how to produce an effective and operational map in the ESPON 2013 program.