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.