A systematic approach to national atlas mapping

Summary

This paper proposes a systematic approach to national atlas mapping, focusing on content selection and map design. The approach comprises eight stages, from defining atlas purposes and user needs, through content selection, subject study, sheet content determination, information nature analysis, ideal map design, data collection, to final sheet arrangement. The author illustrates the application of this approach through the preparation of Plate XI-16-S, "Outdoor Recreation," of the Atlas of the Netherlands. The case demonstrates that ideal designs often cannot be fully realized due to data deficiencies, yet systematic adjustments still yield scientifically valuable map sheets. The approach emphasizes the role of ideal design as a benchmark for evaluating data availability, offering a replicable theoretical framework for atlas compilation.