Redlands, California—Mappers everywhere who harness the power of geographic information system (GIS) technology to tell their stories can now enter Esri’s Storytelling with Maps Contest. Esri is inviting users to submit their top Esri Story Map projects for a chance at prizes and peer recognition at the largest gathering of GIS software users in the world—the Esri User Conference.
Contest participants can submit up to three preexisting or new maps between now and June 8, 2015.
"We’re looking for maps that grab people’s attention and make a lasting impression," said Allen Carroll, leader of the Esri Story Map team.
So what makes a good Story Map, especially a winning one? Being imaginative, choosing the proper Story Map app, paying attention to detail, and showcasing a strong interest in the topic, according to several of last year’s contest winners and a judge. "If you are passionate about the subject, it can really get the creative juices flowing," said Rupert Essinger, an Esri product engineer who served on the judging panel for the 2014 contest.
Submissions will be judged on a range of factors. Each Story Map selected will combine design, user experience, impact, and overall creativity with an interesting and engaging story.
Esri will award first-, second-, and third-place prizes in five categories:
- Travel/Destinations/Recreation
- Infrastructure/Planning/Government
- Science/Technology/Education
- Culture/History/Events
- Conservation/Environment/Sustainability
One grand prize will be awarded to the best overall Story Map entry, as determined by the contest judges. Here are the prizes:
- Grand Prize/Best Overall: A one-year ArcGIS Online subscription for five users plus a plaque and a certificate
- First Prize: A GoPro camera plus a plaque and a certificate
- Second Prize: A copy of the Esri Press book Cartographica Extraordinaire: The Historical Map Transformed plus a plaque and a certificate
- Third Prize: A copy of the Esri Press book Cartographica Extraordinaire: The Historical Map Transformed plus a plaque and a certificate
All entries must make use of one of the Esri Story Map apps. Entries may be hosted in ArcGIS Online or on another server. Contest participants may—and are encouraged to—customize the Story Map apps to suit their needs.
Submissions must be received by 5:00 p.m. (PDT) on June 8. Winners and their Story Map entries will be unveiled at the 2015 Esri User Conference.
Enter the contest and get full contest details at esri.com/storytellingwithmaps. Discover more about Esri Story Map apps at storymaps.arcgis.com.