Map charts

Fusion Tables map charts let you compare and contrast multiple values at a glance. For example, after the Iowa 2012 caucus, you could compare how each candidate fared in each region and how the regions varied.

To create a map chart:

1. Choose Labs > Map charts.
2. Select Label. This is a column with unique names for the polygon regions. The names are used on the x-axis in the charts and identify the regions on the map.
3. Select Polygons. This must be a column of KML polygon shapes. 
4. Select one or more Metrics: These are number columns to be the y-axis values in the charts. 

Interact with the Map Charts

• Click a region on the map. The region names become the map's legend, and the region's metrics are added to the charts. Click a region again to remove it. 
• Each metric displays a chart. You can show/hide each of them.
• Change the sort order: Click on a metric name to sort all charts by that metric. A small triangle appears. Click again to return to the original sort order.

More details:

• Each region name and KML polygon description must be unique.
• You can compare up to a maximum of four regions.

Example: Iowa 2012 Caucus Data

Here's an example:

1. Open the Iowa Caucus 2012 table. 
2. Choose Labs > Map charts.
3. Select District Name as the Label. This identifies the Iowa counties.
4. Select Shape as the Polygons. This holds the county boundaries in KML. 
5. Select VoteCountsRomney, VoteCountsSantorum, and VoteCountsGingrich as the Metrics. 

To explore,

• Click on 3 or 4 map regions.
• Click on the VoteCountGingrich link to sort according to his vote counts. Then click on Santorum to see how the sequencing of the bars changes.