Cartographic Skills: Module 11 - 3D Modeling

In this week's lab, we learned about 3D modeling in presenting map data. We partook in a ESRI workshop training which helped us to better grasp the material that we were learning. We created various maps throughout the ESRI training which taught us how to set the base height of the raster and feature data, manipulate the vertical exaggeration, illumination setting, how extrusion works, and using the extrusion technique to show the value of parcels. 


One of pluses is that allows he 3D map can presents data as a timeline which allow the viewer to see the events of the phenomenon's movement through an area. Another plus about using a 3D map for presenting this data is that the viewer can see geographic and terrain features more in-depth. One of the negative about using this type of map presentation is that requires the author of the map to be able to input all of the data needed for conveying the relative information . Another negative is that the data can be hard to interpret if the map viewer is not familiar with the phenomenon that is being present, such as historical invasions or land parcel values. 

One application of a 3D building layer is gives visual effect to the map that is being presented to the map viewer. The 3D building layer helps the viewer comprehend the map’s data and it might help them get their bearings in a new place with having the 3D models of the buildings in the map data. The second application of 3D building layer is to present data in a new way, such as the value of the parcel by having 3D scales above the land parcels.