The map maker’s dilemma: design challenges in interactive mapping for social science and data journalism

Purpose This study aims to explore the evolving role of interactive maps as an information tool in social sciences and data journalism. To understand the map maker’s perspective on the balance between producing interactive and classic map visualizations, this study investigates the challenges and decision-making processes behind the design and application of such maps. Design/methodology/approach Using methods from digital sociology and information behavior research, the authors conducted semistructured interviews with 18 participants from diverse fields related to social sciences and data journalism. The participants were selected through a combination of purposive and snowball sampling to provide a diverse perspective on creating and using interactive maps. The interviews focused on the participants’ experiences in developing interactive maps, for example, mapping technologies, data acquisition and analysis of user interaction. To identify the main categories of the challenges encountered by these professionals during the creation of interactive maps, the authors applied a thematic analysis in the study. Findings Designing interactive maps entails complex challenges across data, technology, communication and organizational domains. Data issues − including availability, quality, format inconsistencies, territorial discrepancies and confidentiality − complicate analysis and visualization. Technical obstacles like platform compatibility, scalability and maintaining up-to-date maps hinder development. Communication difficulties arise in creating intuitive interfaces, balancing aesthetics with usability and addressing limited map literacy among users. Organizational constraints such as financial limitations, interdisciplinary collaboration gaps and bureaucratic or legal obstacles further impede interactive map production. Research limitations/implications This study is based on qualitative interviews with social scientists, data journalists and map producers working with sociodemographic data. While the sample was diverse, the limited number of expert participants and use of semistructured interviews may not fully capture the range of experiences in the field. Future research should expand to larger, more diverse samples and include quantitative methods such as surveys. In addition, while the study focuses on map makers’ perspectives, it does not explore user experience or long-term map use. Further research should refine the typology of challenges by including both expert and lay users. Practical implications For practitioners in social sciences and data journalism, this study highlights the importance of balancing technical, usability and ethical considerations in interactive map design. Collaborative, interdisciplinary workflows can bridge skill gaps and enhance both accuracy and accessibility. Ongoing user feedback and iterative development are essential for identifying issues early, and organizations should invest in resources and training to sustain high-quality map projects. Social implications While interactive maps can support public understanding of complex issues, their impact is often limited by usability challenges, barriers to access and the risk of misinterpretation. The findings highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to develop inclusive, accurate and sustainable maps. To fulfill their civic and educational potential, these tools must prioritize accessibility, clarity and long-term usability. Originality/value This study comprehensively examines how interactive maps are created and applied in social sciences and data journalism. It lays out a nuanced understanding of the decision-making process and highlights the complex interplay of technical, data-related and communicative factors. The findings offer valuable insight for practitioners and researchers looking to optimize the use of interactive maps in communicating sociodemographic information and advocate for a balanced approach that incorporates the diverse challenges in map creation and application.