Who this guide helps
Creators commissioning a world map
The short answer
Separate navigation, story logic and visual style. An attractive map can still contradict routes or be unusable in the intended format.
Practical workflow
Provide approved places, relationships, travel assumptions and intended use in print, screen or a game. Mark uncertain geography and reference rights. Specify dimensions, labels, layers, revision rounds and editable files if required. Ask how visual scale, legend and exports will be handled.
What a useful handoff looks like
Check several actual story routes against the draft and record corrections. Approve the labeled version before export. Test files in the intended layout and request rights documentation for fonts, textures and other components under the agreement.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not treat a decorative map as a measured geographic model or assume every source file and third-party component is included in the commission price.
Working example: fields to record
| Field | Illustrative entry — replace with your own facts |
|---|---|
| Map purpose | Reader orientation or game reference |
| Uncertain place | Author decision pending |
| Delivery | Agreed layers and export formats |
Add your own entries; the example is illustrative. Keep sensitive information private.
Sources & further checks
Official references are starting points for further checks, not approval of a specific case, product or project.
Editorial note
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Original editorial guidance. Examples are illustrative, not client cases, measured outcomes or promised services.
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