Multivariate Mapping

Bivariate thematic maps are powerful tools for understanding geographic phenomena, making visible spatial associations between them. But bivariate thematic maps are more visually complex than a univariate map, a source of frustration for both map creators and map readers. Despite a variety of visual solutions for bivariate mapping, there exists few 'best practices' for selecting or implementing an appropriate bivariate map type for a given scenario. This results in a need for empirical research examining the perceptual and functional differences among bivariate mapping solutions.