When I see maps on Tableau that looks different from the standard ones in the Tableau software, I am in awe, and it has gotten me thinking about how to achieve the same effect. After some searching on the web, I have learnt that the customised maps are done using Mapbox Studio. Mapbox develops the map that Tableau is using. I have tried it and made a few vizzes using it for my submissions for a #VizforSocialGood project (above) and Iron Quest project (below). You can click on the pictures to go to the viz.
Using Mapbox Studio, the maps can be customised by layers. At first, the layers upon layers seem daunting. However, with the help of Cartogram, I can quickly get the layout and design I want. Cartogram allows users to drag and drop a picture, and the app will take the colours from the picture to change the map colours.
For tutorials, you can see them in the links below:
- Use custom Mapbox styles in Tableau by Mapbox
- Mapbox Studio Guides by Mapbox
- Introduction to Mapbox (Video)
- Instant Maps with Cartogram by Mapbox
Although Mapbox suggests users share their map styles using #BuiltWithMapbox on social media, not many users do share access to their designs. I think there needs to be a gallery or sort to share the styles to prevent users from attempting to create a style again when they already exist.
Things I Like:
1. Customisation. Every layer of the map can be customised - from the colours to the fonts to the icons. This allows users to create map styles that are truly theirs or matching to the theme of their projects.
2. Ease of use through Cartogram. The many layers can be overwhelming. With Cartogram, users can get their desired colours quickly. The idea of uploading a picture for the app to read and creating a map matching the colour style saves loads of time.
First Impression: The basics of Mapbox Studio is easy enough for someone who has a fundamental understanding of maps and whatever software they are using for data visualisation. However, creating an advanced map may not be as easy.