The Chinese Cartographic Association (CCA) organizes the Computer Map Drawing Contest to promote research in spatial information and map production technologies. The contest encourages students from universities and colleges nationwide to engage in computer-assisted cartography and related skills. Entries consist of static maps created using computer graphics software or generative AI, covering diverse themes such as geographic data, remote sensing imagery, historical maps, statistical data, local culture, environmental issues, or future scenario simulations.

This year introduces a new Generative AI Map Design category. All entries must demonstrate the contestant's professional competence in map design, spatial information representation, and content integration. All works shall comply with professional cartographic standards and will be evaluated on map presentation, spatial information communication, visual design, and content completeness. The contest encourages innovative applications integrating generative AI with GIS, remote sensing, cartographic design, and spatial storytelling, rather than mere AI-generated artwork.

Category A - Static Map Design: Based on classic cartographic methods, using computer graphics software or GIS tools, incorporating (but not limited to) narrative visualization, geocomputation and simulation, spatiotemporal data analysis, machine learning, etc., integrating infographics and textual descriptions to scientifically present specific geographic phenomena and their dynamic processes through static map media.

Category B - Generative AI Map Design: Centered on generative AI technologies, utilizing large language models (LLMs), text-to-image, or multimodal AI approaches for map design and spatial storytelling. Entries shall demonstrate the creative application and possibilities of map design in the generative AI era through AI-generated images, symbols, layouts, visual styles, and narrative design. Works must exhibit the thought process of map design and spatial information expression, and shall not submit pure AI-generated images lacking GIS or cartographic design foundation.

Current students of universities and colleges nationwide, with a copy of their student ID, may form teams of 1 to 4 members to register.

Registration & Submission: Now through September 18, 2026 (Fri).

Award Announcement: September 24, 2026 (Thu), published on the CCA website and Facebook fan page. Winners will be notified by email.

Award Ceremony: October 2026, during the CCA annual conference.

A panel of cartographic experts will evaluate entries based on:

• Map Theme & Information: accuracy of spatial logic, geographic relationships, and map content; appropriateness of the map theme; reasonableness of qualitative/quantitative symbol processing. Fictional place names, incorrect river directions, unreasonable road networks, or misplaced geographic locations will result in deductions.
• Layout: completeness of map elements, suitability of map symbol design, and effectiveness of map message delivery.
• Creativity: breadth of practical application, originality of creative ideas.
• Aesthetics: visual appeal of layout design, color schemes, and visual balance.
• AI Application & Cartographic Integration: reasonableness of generative AI tool usage, transparency of the generation process, and degree of integration between AI-generated content and map design/spatial information expression.

Each category may award 1-2 Excellence Awards and 1-3 Honorable Mentions. Awards may be withheld if no entries meet the standard. Winners and their works will be published on the CCA website and presented at the annual general meeting and conference.

• Excellence Award: Certificate and NT$6,000 per team.
• Honorable Mention: Certificate and NT$3,000 per team.

Entries must be static map electronic files created using computer graphics software or generative AI, meeting the following specifications:

• Map Size: A1 (594mm x 841mm)
• Resolution: 300 dpi or higher recommended (judging will use A1 printed sheets)
• File Format: *.jpg, *.png, or *.pdf
• Entries must include a production process description. Category A: software used, functions, and processing steps. Category B: generative AI model version, prompts, reference images, parameter settings, human-AI workflow, and subsequent editing/cartographic integration methods.

• Each person may submit up to two entries.

• Each entry must include a signed Copyright Authorization Form. The organizing units have the right to use the submitted works for CCA-related exhibitions, promotions, photography, and publications.

• Please complete the online registration form and email the static map file, Copyright Authorization Form, and student IDs of all members to ccartoa@gmail.com before the deadline, with the following format:

• Subject: Computer Map Drawing Contest Entry [Map Theme Title]
• Body:
  • Names of all members:
  • University:
  • Department & Year:
  • Phone:
  • Email:
  • Address:
  • Theme Title: (same as online registration)
  • Theme Description: (500 words max)
  • Design Concept: (500 words max)
  • Data Sources: (500 words max)
  • Production Process: (no word limit, or replace with a 5-min explanatory video)

• All entries must be original works that have not won other domestic competitions. Plagiarism or copyright infringement is prohibited. Please cite all sources of maps, remote sensing images, photos, computer files, slides, statistical data, and descriptive text. Any legal liability for infringement rests with the contestant.

• Contestants must honestly disclose the generative AI tools and models used. The production process must not be concealed or fabricated. Contestants must ensure that the AI platforms and materials used comply with relevant licensing requirements and do not infringe third-party copyrights.

• If award-winning works are found to involve forgery, plagiarism, or other violations, the organizer may convene the original judging panel for review and suspend or cancel the contestant's eligibility. Awards may be revoked and certificates and prizes retrieved if necessary.

• Please keep a backup of your entry files. The organizer is not responsible for returning materials after the event.

• Any amendments to these rules will be announced on the CCA website (http://www.ccartoa.org.tw) without further individual notice.

• Contact: Secretary Huang Yu-Chin, ccartoa@gmail.com.