Create map symbol forms that best fits your map design
Map symbols need to communicate information in a clear way. Decorative maps symbols should go further to communicate in a fun, attractive way.
To make you map look complete, use map symbol forms that look similar to each other, and to the look and purpose of your map, whether a formal or an informal feel. If the symbols don't match your map style, your map will look unprofessional and disjoint.
There are many different kinds of symbols.
They can be pictorial, simplified reproductions of the objects they represent, such as this symbol of gender...
They can be image-related, maintaining a visual relationship with objects they represent...
They can be abstract and arbitrary with no visual relationship to the object...
Furthermore, each kind can appear geometric...
or organic...
For a formal feeling use strong geometric forms. Geometric forms have the characteristics of...
- Mathematically precise outer contours
- Angular or hard-edged
- Created from geometric parts...
- Polygons including circle, square, and triangle
- Straight or circular lines
- Angles
Geometric forms can be softened a touch of realism...
For a more informal feeling use organic symbols. Organic forms have the characteristics of...
- Irregular, complex shapes
- Highly distinct
- Have a spontaneous feeling
Organic forms may have an underlying geometric form, but it is overweighed by overall irregularity. In this symbol the border is kept informal with a loose, irregular curve. The figures are outline impressions with lots of movement in the lines.
Symbols can be a mixture of geometric and organic. This symbol combines a geometric square softened with rounded corners and loose lines representing male and female figures...
Finally, keep some books of icons, symbols, and pictograms for reference to help you design your own symbols. You can then adapt well-designed symbols to your map style. The images on this page came from the book icons, symbols + pictograms: Visual Communications for Every Language by BlackCoffee. There are many other good graphic design books illustrating symbols.