This paper aims at composing a reflexive approach of contemporary discussions, arising from the theory of cartographic visualization, with emphasis on the issues of construction of signs used in paper maps. To make it, we tried to combine the MacEachren (1994a & 1995) and Slocum (1999) discussions about map design steps; specially those linked with the Peirce semiotic extraction parameters. Through the application of semiotic reading of topographic and synoptic maps, the particular issues related to the strategies of each cartographic product studied will be shown in order to present an alternative way to map makers in the tasks of construction of more effective signs to different kind of map users. There will be comparison between the perspectives related to the theories of knowledge pointing at new issues in the way of the process of construction of spatial information through maps.
Map Design; Cartographic Visualization; Semiotics
