Scientific Concept and Representation Framework of Maps in the ICT Era

Cartography is a subject whose development was partially restricted due to historical conditions. Compared with the traditional map, driven by new technology and new demands, the mapping objects, representation form, perception channel and user role of maps have all undergone significant changes in the information and communication technology (ICT) era. Therefore, the theoretical framework of cartography needs to be further adapted to the ICT era. This paper firstly analyzes the main characteristics of maps in the ICT era, then discusses the concepts and the scope of representation of modern maps in the new era, and finally tries to build the framework of modern maps including the representation object, information abstraction, map representation and map outcomes. This study is expected to clarify the boundary of extended connotation of cartography research and provide corresponding support for the future development of cartography.