Typical map with data contains the following elements:
- Base map or underlay — underlying base map, that provides us information about the context of the data. It can be a very basic map that shows only shorelines of continents, or very detailed navigational map, above which we need to show some additional information.
- Informational layers — layers of data, similar to Figma or Photoshop layers, that we need to visualize above the base map. There can be a single layer of geodata, or multiple layers, either independent or not.
- Additional static elements, like graticule (coordinate grid) or north direction arrow, scale ruler, legends that are used to make the usage of map easier.
Also, there can be UI-elements that assist to make the map interactive:
- Tools and other actions to interact with map. The most general tool is the ruler, which allows the user to measure the distance and direction (bearing) between two points, but there can be other tools. Other actions include buttons to customize layers, to zoom in or out, to focus the map on our or object’s location and so on.
- Timeline. Is used to select the period or range that affect dynamic data. For instance, if we want to playback the past recorded trip of the ship.
- Coordinates box. Popup window that shows the coordinates of the location under cursor and sometimes other additional information about it.
Of course, there can be any other UI elements, that are needed for our particular task.