Geographical maps as a source of data in the era of informatization

DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-1-31-282-295

View or download the article (Rus)

About the Author

Natalia A. Alekseenko

Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography,
1, Leninskie Gory, Moscow, 119991, Russia,

Institute of Geography of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Department of Cartography and Remote Sensing of the Earth,
29s4, Staromonetny ln., Moscow, 119991, Russia,

E-mail: valtuz@mail.ru

Abstract

The article considers the issue of using geographic maps (analog or digital) as data sources. The problem is seen not only in the quality of the cartographic data, but also in the skills and knowledge of the users who must evaluate this data for specific actions in certain conditions. The article analyzes the Russian cartographic data market, including historical aspects of secrecy and the current trend of economic informatization. The article presents a classification of data by various parameters, with an emphasis on the reliability criterion. The factors influencing the reliability of thematic cartographic studies, the materials used, mapping methods, and authorship are analyzed in detail. Different types of maps are analyzed according to their possible use: state, departmental, and private. The article describes the features of state cartographic sources (EEKO, Public Cadastral Map), as well as departmental mapping materials and their application. The article discusses the need to understand different approaches to classifications in the same and different areas of thematic mapping. The article notes the change in the positions of natural and public cartography, as well as their current trends. The legislative framework of the geodesy and cartography industry of the Russian Federation is presented, issues of copyright and responsibility for the quality and reliability of geographic maps are considered. In conclusion, the article suggests that the effective use of geographic maps as sources of information requires not only critical thinking, but also knowledge about the theoretical foundations of creating maps for the logical interpretation of information. The characteristics of accuracy, reliability and plausibility of reflection are given for both general geographic and thematic maps.

Keywords

geographical maps, data, reliability, assessment, information

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For citation: Alekseenko N.A. Geographical maps as a source of data in the era of informatization. InterCarto. InterGIS. Moscow: MSU, Faculty of Geography, 2025. V. 31. Part 1. P. 282–295. DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-1-31-282-295 (in Russian)