Dot density maps can be powerful tools in displaying certain types of data.  This week we were asked to map the population density of counties in South Florida.  Using a surface water layer and a modified land cover dataset for urban land, we were able to place the dots in locations where the populations actually existed and not randomly spread throughout counties.  This made the appearance of the map much more realistic and meaningful. 

The assignment was well-conceived and working through it would enable me to accomplish the learning objectives.  Those objectives were assessing the overall design issues for dot density mapping, utilizing the arctool Excel to Table, creating a dot map in ArcGIS, experimenting with dot weights/sizes, and handling dot placement.

The assignment was challenging due to problems with ArcGIS crashing while experimenting with dot placement.

Despite my problems with ArcGIS, viewers should be able to see the effectiveness of dot density mapping to demonstrate the intensity of particular kinds of point data.