Cartography FAQs

What is the difference between a 'custom map' and a 'stock map'?
A custom map is one designed 'to your requirements'. The custom map will provide you with the correct map coverage, map size, map content and map design that you need. A stock map is a 'one-size-fits-all' solution. Stock maps often require additional work by yourself or your staff to meet your needs.

How much does a custom map cost?
The cost of the map is based on labour and materials. The three main factors that determine the time involved are the size of the map, how detailed the map is, and how simple or complex the style of the map. If the map is to be printed, the costs will also take into account the quality and type of paper, the size of the map , and the number of folds in the map (if any).

Do you provide a fixed-price quote or an estimate for your services?
In 90 percent of cases we provide a fixed-price quote. For a very complex and large mapping project we may have to provide an estimate of charges which can be reviewed at regular intervals throughout the project.

How do I go about requesting a quote?
Phone us, or email demap your enquiry. Full contact details are here

How long will it take?
That depends on a number of factors: the size of the map, how detailed the map is, and how simple or complex the style of the map. A simple map might take only one day, while a very complex map might take weeks.

What information do you need from me?
Please refer to the demap Custom Map Request Form

I don't have any data to supply to you. Do you have access to data that we can use?
Yes, we have access to map data from all over the world. Some of it is available for free, some of it we have to pay for. Either way we will select the most suitable and affordable for your project.

Can I provide you with a reference map or data?
Certainly. We encourage our clients to provide us with as much information as possible.

I really only have a vague idea of what I want. Is that a problem?
No, that is not a problem. We deal with clients all the time who are not exactly sure what they are after. We work through the questions in the Demap Custom Map Request form which helps us build a picture of your requirements.

Can I modify the map once you have supplied it to me?
Yes in theory, but in practice we don't recommend it. Most maps we supply have been carefully prepared to meet your requirements using our cartographic skill. We prefer you to send the map back to us so that we make the changes you need (free of charge!).

Who owns the copyright on the map once it is completed?
Once the map is completed demap will retain copyright ownership over the map and its content unless otherwise agreed with the client.

For further information about maps and copyright please read the following documentation produced by the Australian Copyright Council.
Download Maps and Charts Copyright PDF

For further information please visit: www.copyright.org.au

How many drafts do you supply before the map is final?
Typically we supply between 2 and 3 drafts of each map. These costs are included in our quote. If you require more than 2 or 3 drafts, then the extra charges incurred will be based on the time taken to produce another draft.

Can you print the map for me?
Certainly. We use a number of high quality third party printers on a regular basis. We can arrange to have just one copy of your map printed, or as many as needed.

Can I put my business logo onto the custom map?
Yes. Many of our clients want their business logo or disclaimer added to the map.