Map Critique

An example of a well-designed map:

This well-designed topographic map of Easter Island jumps off the paper, all while accurately displaying ancient statues and ruins. The labeling on this map is very clear and well placed. The use of varying fonts and colors along with feature symbology eliminates the possibility of confusing ruins for a populated place. The inclusion of the inset map helps to transport the reader from the coast of Chile and across the South Pacific.

An example of a poorly-designed map:

This map caught my eye today when I visited the Fox News website. It is targeted toward Americans who are quickly able to recognize a map of the United States. Its widely recognized shape makes typical map elements such as labeling or a North arrow unnecessary. However, when we take a closer look at this map it becomes unclear as to what exactly the Center for Disease Control wants us to know. We can see something is widespread but what? And the improper use of color falsely indicates that Hawaii is on the verge of becoming widespread. The only thing clear with this map is how one missing map element, in this case a title, can render a great looking map impotent.