Create a Map Analysis

Walkthrough

Step 1: Open a New Map Analysis

Navigate to the map analysis page from the navigation menu or homepage

Step 2: Select a Geography

Choose the geographic boundary you want to explore from one of the four options:

  • Census tract

  • Zip code tabulation area (ZCTA)

  • County

  • Congressional district

Step 3: Choose One or More Data Indicators

Use the indicator panel to search or browse available data indicators. Select up to 3 boundary indicators, including any private indicators uploaded or shared by your team, or public data indicators in the following categories:

  • Economic Security

  • Health

  • Food Access and Nutrition

  • Housing and Infrastructure

  • Population and Demographics

Step 4: Explore the Map

Interact with the map to find the right selection of indicators and view by:

  • Zoom into or search for specific regions

  • Hovering over a shaded boundary or pin to view exact numerical information

  • Look at the legend to understand how to interpret the shading on the heatmap

  • Toggle or adjust data indicator card sliders to draw further attention to areas of higher vulnerability

(Optional) Step 5: Save Your Work

Save your map analysis by creating a name in the text box and clicking “Save” above the map. This will allow you to revisit the configured view at a later time and further make adjustments if needed.

Best Practices

Start with a Clear Question

The most effective analyses begin with a specific question or objective.

For example:

  • Which communities may have the greatest barriers to food access?

  • Where should we prioritize our outreach efforts?

  • Which areas show overlapping economic and health challenges?

Having a clear goal can help guide indicator selection and interpretation.

Choose the Right Geography

Different geographic boundaries can reveal different patterns.

  • Census Tracts: fine-grained analysis using small statistical boundaries

  • Zip Code Tabulation Areas (ZCTAs): Medium-level regional analysis and comparison

  • Counties: medium-level analysis at state-specific county levels

  • Congressional Districts: High-level analysis divided by state-specific congressional boundaries

Consider which geography best aligns with your decision-making needs

Use Multiple Indicators Thoughtfully

Beacon allows you to compare up to three indicators at a time.

When possible, select indicators that help answer the same question, rather than unrelated metrics. Focused comparisons are often easier to interpret and communicate.

Pay Attention to the Legend

The map legend explains how values are distributed and how shading is applied across geographies. Before drawing conclusions, review the legend to understand what high and low values represent, and how the data is being visualized.

Use Map Analysis as a Starting Point

Map analyses are often the most valuable when combined with local knowledge, partner input, and additional research.

Use Beacon to identify opportunities, patterns, and suggestions for further exploration and discussion, rather than relying on any single indicator in isolation.