Well-designed cartographic information displays turn complex geopolitical information into actionable insights for evidence-based policy making. The UZH Geographic Information Visualization and Analysis (GIVA) group was asked by the Policy Planning Unit of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) to create a stream-lined mapping process to support efficient decision-making. For this, I developed a workflow based on well-established cartographic design principles, relying on efficient open data retrieval, processing, and mapping.

The workflow I created comprises ready-to-use thematic map templates developed with QuantumGIS (QGIS), an open and free Geographic Information System. These templates include appropriate map projections, color schemes, map symbology, and graphic layouts that adhere to cartographic design standards. To make data handling more efficient, I established semi-automated workflows to retrieve and process data from open data sources such as Our World in Data or Eurostat. The visual style was based on the current FDFA corporate design guidelines and included inspirations from the visual style guide for maps published by the Neue Zürcher Zeitung. Below is an example of such a thematic map created using one of my templates.

My mapping project followed the principles of user-centered map design. Following a kick-off meeting with the FDFA client and the GIVA group to assess the current situation and to define project objectives, I created first proof-of-concept drafts. I regularly invited the GIVA project team to give feedback on these drafts and also presented the evolving drafts to the Policy Planning Unit. I continuously refined these drafts based on this feedback. This close coordination was essential to ensure that the results met the needs of the FDFA client. The various modules in Geographic Information Science throughout my UZH geography studies provided me with solid knowledge, a good understanding, and honed skill set to tackle these project tasks, particularly regarding cartographic design principles, geovisualisation techniques, and general geodata processing.

One particular highlight was my visit to the Federal Palace in Bern to meet with the Head of the Policy Planning Unit and several diplomats within the FDFA. I held a presentation to make my case for using and displaying spatial data for foreign policy. The final product of this project was a ready-to-use workflow that enables the FDFA to achieve the desired rapid and consistent creation of a series of thematic maps, based on a structured and transparent approach while maintaining a clean and well-documented open spatial database. The prepared templates and well-documented mapping workflow enable FDFA team members with basic GIS experience to efficiently turn raw data into aesthetically pleasing maps that clearly reveal and communicate data relationships for internal reports or policymaker briefings.

Micha Franz, Master’s student in Geography with specialization in GIScience.