Before one can begin with the creation of a map, it has to be decided if a
single-colour map or a multi-colour map is more suitable.
Single-colour maps have the advantage that
they cost much less money to produce, because the printing-process is less laborious.
The map design, however, makes great demands on the cartographer if the map should
show the information density as a comparable colourful map. The design possibilities
for different grey scales is somewhat limited. Single-colour maps are usually used
for simple, small map displays in journals and books (Imhof 1972).
The production process for multi-colour maps is
much more expensive. However, they allow for a wider range of design possibilities.