Open map List

Flow Map

A flow map is a type of thematic map that represents the movement of objects, people, goods, or information between different locations. It uses lines or arrows to show the direction, volume, and intensity of movement, making it useful for visualizing migration, trade, transportation, and network flows.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of a Flow Map:

  • Lines or arrows indicate movement between locations.
  • Line thickness or color represents the volume/intensity of flow.
  • Can be static or dynamic (interactive maps can show real-time movement).
  • Often used in transportation, economics, and environmental studies.

Examples

Types of Flow Maps:

  1. Radial Flow Maps:

    • Show movement from a central point to multiple destinations.
    • Example: Air traffic from a major airport to various cities.
       

  2. Network Flow Maps:

    • Represent complex systems with interconnected nodes.
    • Example: Internet data transfer across different regions.
       

  3. Distributive Flow Maps:

    • Show the spread of resources from a source to different areas.
    • Example: Electricity distribution from a power plant.
       

  4. Linear Flow Maps:

    • Display movement along defined routes.
    • Example: Migration patterns of people across borders.

Common Uses of Flow Maps:

✔ Migration Studies: Tracking human movement between countries.
✔ Trade & Logistics: Showing global trade routes (e.g., exports/imports).
✔ Transportation Planning: Analyzing commuter traffic and transit networks.
✔ Environmental Analysis: Mapping ocean currents or wildlife migration.
✔ Digital & Data Networks: Visualizing internet data flow between servers.

Outgoing relations