What is an Economic Map?

An economic or a resource map is a map that outlines the kind of economic activities that take place in a certain region. This kind of map features a variety of colors and symbols that refer to specific economic activities. Economic maps often present natural resources and labor resources as part of an area's economy.

The first economic maps were seen in what is now Russia in the 1600s and were drawn by hand. The publishing of the first printed maps took place in the 1840s. General economic maps serve to outline entire economies. These maps portray a larger area, complete with its economic regions, economic ties, specialization of productions, territorial-production complexes, economic centers, and levels of economic development.

Details of Economic Maps

The center of interest of an economic map could be on anything from agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and other economic activities of a region. Shading or color indicates the land location devoted to particular activities such as farming. Symbols indicate the varieties of natural resources in the region. They frequently show highways, roads, and shipping ports.

Uses of Economic Maps

An economic map can help manufacturers save time and money with production. Economic maps help in identifying the commodities necessary for production in a region and in determining whether there is a stable availability of raw materials around. They also help to track the leading producers of goods. Economic maps can be used to ease preparation, predicting developments and identifying productive forces.

Economic maps are useful in making better decisions by giving better knowledge into a place and distribution of one’s resources. With a resource map, individuals or group of individuals can cooperatively record, track, and examine resources at a quick look using a live map. It can show people what sort of money places have, or the number of employees in a certain area. Hence, they are used for informing people on economic status or levels.