Map Types

Dot Density Maps

Dot density maps are sometimes called dot distribution maps because they show where particular data characteristics occur. Dot density maps use dots or other symbols to represent the number of occurrences of a given data characteristic in a particular location. Each dot or symbol used on the map may represent a single entity (one dot = one person) or a group (one dot = 1000 people).

Location Analytics

Dot density maps are most useful for showing where particular data occur. They also enable area comparisons. Care must be taken when using dot density maps to interpret the "symbol to data characteristic" ratio. Also, it should be understood that the dots or symbols do not always indicate the exact location of the data characteristic. Symbols often represent data occurring within a bounding polygon such as a census tract, zip code or county.