Sammendrag
For several years users of standard software for spreadsheets have been able to visualise their tabular data as maps due to a new tool: statistical mapping. One such standard software that has imbedded mapping capabilities is Excel. An evaluation of Excel's functionality for statistical mapping is carried out. By functionality we mean the software's abilities to respond to the users intention. The evaluation deals with choropleth mapping. This mapping process is decomposed into three decisions: the choice of number of classes, the choice of method for class breaks determination, and choice of symbolisation. How the Excel mapping environment performs each of these steps is investigated in comparison with cartographic theory. Finally, some reflections on the influence the democratisation of mapping might have on map design is put forward.
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