Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
The State of Official Statistical Mapping
in Switzerland (and Other European
Countries)
Thomas Schulz
Statistical Mapping
A Definition: Maps can serve three main purposes in the value chain of official
statistics: as a means of the (a) preparation of surveys, (b) daily analysis of new
data, and (c) documentation of statistical results (Bollmann and M¨ ller
2002
; Witt
1970
; Dickinson
1963
). Their traditional function as graphical memory for spatial
data has strongly declined over the last decades, as we all know. As a matter of fact,
it has never played a role in official statistics. If maps were used by statistical
institutions, they have at all times only promoted a small part of the statistical
material at all which are rather kept in large tables and databases. Thematic maps in
statistics usually concentrate on those variables suited for telling us stories—
remarkable stories that aid consumers in gaining fundamental knowledge about
the most important structures and changes in our society and economy.
Historically, the first category—maps for the preparation of surveys—was of
great importance. (Applied) topographical maps helped National Statistical Insti-
tutes (NSIs) to delimit census blocks and sample areas before data could be
collected. With the new census approach of the twenty-first century, where most
statistical data are linked to coordinates and retrieved from existing registers or are
based on sample surveys, fix reference areas dissolve. These “internal” maps are no
longer needed. It can be assumed that 90 % of all maps used and produced by (NSIs)
today belong to the third category—maps for dissemination. Hence, the most
important role of maps in statistics is visibly their role as a concise messenger of
regional statistical data for the broad public as well as decision makers (Fig.
1
).
