About Maps on Demand at the USGS

Currently, the USGS uses conventional lithographic printing techniques to produce paper copies of most of its mapping products. This practice is not economical for those products where the demand is low. With the advent of newer technologies, high-speed, large-format printers have been coupled with innovative computer technologies to turn digital map data into a printed map.

Using the print-on-demand technology, the USGS is implementing map-on-demand (MOD) printing for selected infrequently requested map products. By providing MOD products, the USGS can provide an alternative to traditional large-volume printing; it can also improve its responsiveness to customers by providing access to USGS scientific data that otherwise might not be available.

Product Delivery

Maps selected for sale using MOD printing will only be available in this format. Each map produced will be evaluated periodically to determine if the demand warrants a lithographic printing. If lithographic prints are made available, the price will be adjusted to the standard price for printed maps. Because the on-demand product is being printed at the request of the customer, it cannot be returned or exchanged.

Differences between lithographic maps and MOD maps

The paper and inks used in the MOD process are not as durable as those used for traditional USGS lithographic products. Although the inks are ultraviolet resistant, they are not water stable. These products must be protected from high humidity and wet conditions and from prolonged and consistent exposure to the Sun and other radiation sources. The MOD maps can be written on with either ink or pencil with no smudging, and they can be heat laminated with no "bleeding" of the colors.

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