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LinkedIn Learning

Drawing Simplified Maps in Illustrator

via LinkedIn Learning

Overview

Learn how to create a simple, easy-to-read map in Illustrator, and enhance it with motion and interactivity.

Mapping is a common design task. Designers are asked to reinterpret map data to make a location—think a theme park or college campus—seem friendlier or more approachable. In this course, Tony Harmer teachers you how to create a simple, easy-to-read map in Illustrator, using the ArcGIS plugin and other basic reference tools. Tony explains what you should consider before drawing your map, including its purpose, audience, and destination (print or digital), and then shows how to build a map that is scaled correctly and includes important topographical features and landmarks, such as roads and buildings. He enhances the map with dynamic markers, perspective, and labels, and then he shows how to add motion and interactivity to make your maps more useful in today's connected world.

Syllabus

Introduction
  • Welcome
  • What you should know before watching this course
  • Using the exercise files
  • The Nimbling SSR plug-in
1. Designing a Simplified Map
  • Where will your map be used?
  • Attraction maps
  • Using reference material
  • Using the ArcGIS plug-in
2. Basic Skills
  • Appearance
  • Symbols and dynamic symbols
  • Masks
3. Creating a Simplified Map
  • Creating the appearances
  • Drawing the roads
  • Targeting the layer for roads
  • Fading the unnecessary roads
  • Creating the river
  • Styling the river
  • Adding buildings and landmarks to the map
  • Adding areas to the map
  • Adding type
4. Enhancing Your Map
  • Adding dynamic markers
  • Isometric buildings
  • Perspective grid
  • Making smarter labels
  • Adding directional arrows
5. Interactive Maps
  • Planning an interactive map
  • Adding SVG interactivity
  • Planning a motion map
  • Adding a map to Adobe After Effects
  • Animating a marker
  • Adding navigation points in Adobe InDesign
Conclusion
  • Other courses to explore
  • Connecting with the instructor and wrapping up

Taught by

Tony Harmer

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