Two new templates for epidemiology applications: linked micromap plots andconditioned choropleth maps

This paper describes two interactive templates for representing spatially i ndexed estimates. Both templates use a matrix layout of small panels. The f irst template, called linked micromap plots, can represent multivariate est imates associated with each spatially indexed study unit. The second templa te, called conditioned choropleth maps, shows the connection between a depe ndent variable, as represented in a classed choropleth map, and two explana tory variables. The paper describes the cognitive considerations that motiv ate the layouts and representation details. The discussion also addresses t opics of data quality and access, hypothesis generation, and interactive fe atures such as pan and zoom and dynamic conditioning via sliders. The examp les show epidemiological (mortality rates) and environmental (toxic concent rations) applications. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.