Mapmaking: Layers and layers

Yesterday, I started a series on Map-making, based on Scott Peck's concept that throughout life we draw, erase, and re-draw maps of how we view life. To explore this concept in more depth, I've been grilling my friend Kristen on her job geo-processing (map-making).

Me: Okay, Kristen. What are some of the essential tools a mapmaker needs?

Kristen: Good data, good software, & good training. Other than that, the tools are mainly internal. Good spatial intelligence, creative problem solving, not being colorblind, etc.

Me: So if the tools are mainly internal, is it a group process at all? Or primarily based on individual creation?

Kristen: Map making is definitely a group effort! Maps take a lot of layers, even a simple map like the one below has six layers. We have 144 layers in our main database. 38 layers are static (require no editing), I maintain 82, but 24 are edited regularly by other county departments. Since those departments rely on those layers daily, it's best that they have control over the edits. We do have a certain amount of checks & balances since we're all looking at each others' data frequently and can easily tell each other about edits that need to be made.

Peck emphasizes the importance of community to maintain accurate maps of life. Often our own pain can distort our perception of the truth. By inviting others into our lives...allowing them to view our maps, we invite others to correct mistakes.

Actually, the city just put in a new light post on this corner...I know this because I live down the block.

I know you think you bore people, but remember the other day when you had a really good conversation with the girl who was new in Bible Study?

Letting people look at our maps takes courage. It's much safer to keep our maps to ourselves, peaking for direction when no one else is looking. But, we run the greater risk of using a guide that is outdated and inaccurate.

Peck makes a final brilliant observation about lies and the map-making process. He explains that it may be easy for us to show people only particular sections of the map--the sections we know are up-to-date and won't evoke correction. But when it comes to the areas we are unsure about, we cover them in shame.

Are you inviting others to look at your map? Are there some areas of your map that you feel are more difficult to show others? What are they? Why is it more difficult?