<![CDATA[IDU Regional Forum - Cartography, Vexillology, and Historiography]]> https://idugov.com/forum/ Sun, 24 May 2026 23:51:41 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[IDU MAP 2024]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2463 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:06:52 -0600 Gardavasque]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2463 Welcome to the IDU Ministry of Cartography Our mission is to facilitate fun, active role play in the IDU by maintaining reliable, equitable, and responsive data and mapping resources. Map updates are performed approximately quarterly in January, April, July, and October around the middle of the month. New in 2024, the Ministry will be streamlining our request management services using Google Forms. 

Frequently asked questions
Q: How many nations can I request?
A: For now, you can request as many as you need. This rule may change in the future, based on future needs.
Q: What if I don't like my placement or the features where I am?
A: We can change it. Unlike real life Earth, plate tectonics can happen overnight.
Q: Can you add or remove islands or other features?
A: Yes! Easy Peasy
Q: I want to border XYZ Nation, but they no longer exist. What should I do?
A: Nations on the map that have ceased to exist (CTE'd) for >90 days will automatically consent welcome new nations on their borders.
Q: Will we run out of space on the map?
A: If we grew that large it would be a great problem to have. So, don't worry about it for now.
Q: What nations are eligible to be on the map.
A: Any Main nation or puppet that is a resident of the IDU, regardless of population.
Q: Not that I would ever do anything bad, but what if I get ejected from the IDU?
A: You can expect your nation to be removed from the map at the next regular update. Successful ejection appeals may result in map eligibility being restored but won't guarantee same place on the map. May you never have to go through such drama.
Q: What software do you use for creating the map?
A: PaintX Premium at the moment. But it is creating some unfortunate consistency issues that don't scale well. Anyone who has GIMP or Adobe skills is invited to reach out to the Ministry of Cartography.
Q: Can I use Special characters in my nation name (e.g. Dàguó)?
A: Yes! Type it in the form exactly as you would like it to appear. 
Q: Um there's a CTE'd nation in my way, can I ask for it to be removed?
A: Maybe? Nations with an entry in the IDU wiki, formidable presence in IDU/roleplay history, or former WA Delegates cannot be removed from map without their consent]]> Welcome to the IDU Ministry of Cartography Our mission is to facilitate fun, active role play in the IDU by maintaining reliable, equitable, and responsive data and mapping resources. Map updates are performed approximately quarterly in January, April, July, and October around the middle of the month. New in 2024, the Ministry will be streamlining our request management services using Google Forms. 

Frequently asked questions
Q: How many nations can I request?
A: For now, you can request as many as you need. This rule may change in the future, based on future needs.
Q: What if I don't like my placement or the features where I am?
A: We can change it. Unlike real life Earth, plate tectonics can happen overnight.
Q: Can you add or remove islands or other features?
A: Yes! Easy Peasy
Q: I want to border XYZ Nation, but they no longer exist. What should I do?
A: Nations on the map that have ceased to exist (CTE'd) for >90 days will automatically consent welcome new nations on their borders.
Q: Will we run out of space on the map?
A: If we grew that large it would be a great problem to have. So, don't worry about it for now.
Q: What nations are eligible to be on the map.
A: Any Main nation or puppet that is a resident of the IDU, regardless of population.
Q: Not that I would ever do anything bad, but what if I get ejected from the IDU?
A: You can expect your nation to be removed from the map at the next regular update. Successful ejection appeals may result in map eligibility being restored but won't guarantee same place on the map. May you never have to go through such drama.
Q: What software do you use for creating the map?
A: PaintX Premium at the moment. But it is creating some unfortunate consistency issues that don't scale well. Anyone who has GIMP or Adobe skills is invited to reach out to the Ministry of Cartography.
Q: Can I use Special characters in my nation name (e.g. Dàguó)?
A: Yes! Type it in the form exactly as you would like it to appear. 
Q: Um there's a CTE'd nation in my way, can I ask for it to be removed?
A: Maybe? Nations with an entry in the IDU wiki, formidable presence in IDU/roleplay history, or former WA Delegates cannot be removed from map without their consent]]> <![CDATA[Original IDU flag]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2192 Mon, 27 Dec 2021 21:07:14 -0600 Grosseschnauzer]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2192 <![CDATA[The IDUvian Great World War (OOC Discussion)]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2089 Tue, 21 Jul 2020 22:58:26 -0500 Libertas Omnium Maximus]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2089
What we've got so far
  • Before the war, a non-player controlled nation located in northern Catica began growing in size and threatened the safety of several bordering nations.
  • This aggression lead to the forming of a Northern Catican coalition, which included most democratic and anti-expansionist nations on the continent.
  • War broke out in 1961, with the aggressing nation calling in the support of several other large world powers.
  • The war spilled over into the rest of Catica, Hespia, and even Liberalia in the following years, leading to a state of near universal militarization.
  • The expansionist faction was beaten back over the next six or so years.
  • Despite their initial aggression, the non-player controlled nation was ultimately dissolved in 1967, leading to an armistice.

Please feel free to voice your thoughts below.]]>
What we've got so far
  • Before the war, a non-player controlled nation located in northern Catica began growing in size and threatened the safety of several bordering nations.
  • This aggression lead to the forming of a Northern Catican coalition, which included most democratic and anti-expansionist nations on the continent.
  • War broke out in 1961, with the aggressing nation calling in the support of several other large world powers.
  • The war spilled over into the rest of Catica, Hespia, and even Liberalia in the following years, leading to a state of near universal militarization.
  • The expansionist faction was beaten back over the next six or so years.
  • Despite their initial aggression, the non-player controlled nation was ultimately dissolved in 1967, leading to an armistice.

Please feel free to voice your thoughts below.]]> <![CDATA[IDU Ministry of Cartography 2022 Map]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2050 Sun, 12 Apr 2020 13:20:46 -0500 Gardavasque]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=2050 This Map thread is Archived Confused 
For the IDU Map 2024, please go to: 
IDU Map 2024 Thread
Welcome to the IDU Ministry of Cartography
Our mission is to provide and maintain reliable, responsive, and equitable geospatial data and mapping resources, as well as historic and archive maps for all nations of the IDU in a manner that facilitates fun, active role-play, nation-building, and diplomacy. In service to the region, we will attempt to maintain quarterly updates to the map (January, April, July, October) around the 15th of the month. In the interest of transparency, the Ministry of Cartography will use this thread for all official map requests and communications.
Please click here for the latest version of the IDU Map.        Please click here for a .gif version of the IDU Globe.          Please click here for the Map Request Log
Announcing Major Map Overhaul for Q4 2022 Summer 2023
The current map has numerous stylistic and consistency errors (especially fonts, lines, cities), a poorly-selected color palette, no map key, no Spell Check, no lines of longitude and latitude, and exists only as a political map (no physical map, no time zone map, tectonic oddities). In addition, as part of our response to COVID, the Ministry of Cartography indefinitely suspended the practice of removing former resident nations that have since left the region or ceased to exist. Consequently, there are numerous nations to be nominated for removal from the map. Therefore, there will be new improved map release in Summer 2023 which will feature the same continents and oceans, but with improved lines, color, fonts, and additional features (Cities, provinces, mountains, forests, roads, etc.!). The Ministry will be pinging each resident nation to determine their specific preferences for inclusion on the new map.
The Current map is maintained in a combination of PaintX for Mac and Preview which isn't the best solution for this kind of thing, and at full zoom the map has become just a frightful mess. Plus NationStates is making exciting changes to how nations will share maps with one another. Beginning with the next Map update in Summer 2023, the current 2022 Map will be retired and a new one will be built and deployed using Azgaar's Fantasy Map Generator. A new thread will be created for the 2023 Map sometime around July. 
How to get on the Political Map
Please reply to this thread with the following info (This form will be replaced summer 2023).
Nation Name: __________ Capital City: __________ Describe location of capital city within the nation: (Example: Southwestern coast at mouth of the river) __________

Nature of request: (Please select from these options)
• Primary/Main Nation, First Time Placement
• Puppet Nation, First Time Placement
• Already On Map, Requesting Modification
• Nominate an International Reserve
• Nominate a Map Feature (example: Ocean, Mountain Range, etc.)
• Nominate a Nation for Removal

Which continent would you like to be located? (Please select from these options)
• Anywhere
• Caxcana
• Hesperida
• Liberalia
• Neria
• No Continent

Which side of the continent?
• North
• South
• East
• West
• Central
• Other

What Approximate Latitude? __________. Which Nation(s) will share a border with you? (Please have them confirm their consent by replying with "OK" on this thread) __________

Which features are characteristic of your Nation? (As many as apply)
• Smooth Coastline
• Rocky Coastline/Fjords
• Single Island
• Archipelago
• Small Land Area
• Medium Land Area
• Large Land Area
• Desert (few rivers)
• Riparian (many rivers)
• Peninsula
• Lakes
• Natural Bay/Harbor
• Isthmus
• Linear borders
• Jagged borders

Which color would you prefer on the Political Map?
• Gold
• Lavender
• Light Blue
• Light Green
• Peach
• Pink
• Tan
• Teal

What real-life nation has characteristics similar to your nation in terms of size, location, geography, or culture? __________.  Is there anything else you would like the Ministry of Cartography to know? __________
*  *  *
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many nations can I request?
A: For now, you can request as many as you need. This rule may change in the future, based on future needs.
Q: Can I request a specific shape?
A: Uh, sure, but no Floridas... just keep it PG.
Q: What if I don't like my placement or the features where I am?
A: We can change it. Unlike real life Earth, plate tectonics can happen overnight.
Q: Can you add or remove islands or other features?
A: Yes! Easy Peasy
Q: I want to border XYZ Nation, but they no longer exist. What should I do?
A: Nominate them for removal. We will reach out to the nominated nation. Removal process will be at least 30 days, but not longer than 60 days.
Q: Will we run out of space on the map?
A: If we grew that large it would be a great problem to have. So, don't worry about it.
Q: What nations are eligible to be on the map.
A: Any Main nation or puppet that is a resident of the IDU, regardless of population.
Q: Not that I would ever do anything bad, but what if I get ejected from the IDU?
A: You can expect your nation to be removed from the map at the next regular update. Successful ejection appeals may result in map eligibility being restored but won't guarantee same place on the map. May you never have to go through such drama.
Q: What software do you use for creating the map?
A: PaintX at the moment. But it is creating some unfortunate consistency issues that don't scale well. Anyone who has GIMP or Adobe skills is invited to reach out to the Ministry of Cartography.
Q: Can I add a historic nation or nation that no longer exists in the IDU?
A: In the near future, we will add a separate Historical Map that you can add to.
Q: Can you add lines of longitude and latitude?
A: In the future when we use a different program (not PaintX) for edits. They didn't look good when we tried.
Q: Can I add my 10 largest cities?
A: For now, each nation can have a capital city. We will overhaul the map to be able to add more details in the near future. The ministry is happy to provide you with an individual map with your cities upon request.]]> This Map thread is Archived Confused 
For the IDU Map 2024, please go to: 
IDU Map 2024 Thread
Welcome to the IDU Ministry of Cartography
Our mission is to provide and maintain reliable, responsive, and equitable geospatial data and mapping resources, as well as historic and archive maps for all nations of the IDU in a manner that facilitates fun, active role-play, nation-building, and diplomacy. In service to the region, we will attempt to maintain quarterly updates to the map (January, April, July, October) around the 15th of the month. In the interest of transparency, the Ministry of Cartography will use this thread for all official map requests and communications.
Please click here for the latest version of the IDU Map.        Please click here for a .gif version of the IDU Globe.          Please click here for the Map Request Log
Announcing Major Map Overhaul for Q4 2022 Summer 2023
The current map has numerous stylistic and consistency errors (especially fonts, lines, cities), a poorly-selected color palette, no map key, no Spell Check, no lines of longitude and latitude, and exists only as a political map (no physical map, no time zone map, tectonic oddities). In addition, as part of our response to COVID, the Ministry of Cartography indefinitely suspended the practice of removing former resident nations that have since left the region or ceased to exist. Consequently, there are numerous nations to be nominated for removal from the map. Therefore, there will be new improved map release in Summer 2023 which will feature the same continents and oceans, but with improved lines, color, fonts, and additional features (Cities, provinces, mountains, forests, roads, etc.!). The Ministry will be pinging each resident nation to determine their specific preferences for inclusion on the new map.
The Current map is maintained in a combination of PaintX for Mac and Preview which isn't the best solution for this kind of thing, and at full zoom the map has become just a frightful mess. Plus NationStates is making exciting changes to how nations will share maps with one another. Beginning with the next Map update in Summer 2023, the current 2022 Map will be retired and a new one will be built and deployed using Azgaar's Fantasy Map Generator. A new thread will be created for the 2023 Map sometime around July. 
How to get on the Political Map
Please reply to this thread with the following info (This form will be replaced summer 2023).
Nation Name: __________ Capital City: __________ Describe location of capital city within the nation: (Example: Southwestern coast at mouth of the river) __________

Nature of request: (Please select from these options)
• Primary/Main Nation, First Time Placement
• Puppet Nation, First Time Placement
• Already On Map, Requesting Modification
• Nominate an International Reserve
• Nominate a Map Feature (example: Ocean, Mountain Range, etc.)
• Nominate a Nation for Removal

Which continent would you like to be located? (Please select from these options)
• Anywhere
• Caxcana
• Hesperida
• Liberalia
• Neria
• No Continent

Which side of the continent?
• North
• South
• East
• West
• Central
• Other

What Approximate Latitude? __________. Which Nation(s) will share a border with you? (Please have them confirm their consent by replying with "OK" on this thread) __________

Which features are characteristic of your Nation? (As many as apply)
• Smooth Coastline
• Rocky Coastline/Fjords
• Single Island
• Archipelago
• Small Land Area
• Medium Land Area
• Large Land Area
• Desert (few rivers)
• Riparian (many rivers)
• Peninsula
• Lakes
• Natural Bay/Harbor
• Isthmus
• Linear borders
• Jagged borders

Which color would you prefer on the Political Map?
• Gold
• Lavender
• Light Blue
• Light Green
• Peach
• Pink
• Tan
• Teal

What real-life nation has characteristics similar to your nation in terms of size, location, geography, or culture? __________.  Is there anything else you would like the Ministry of Cartography to know? __________
*  *  *
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many nations can I request?
A: For now, you can request as many as you need. This rule may change in the future, based on future needs.
Q: Can I request a specific shape?
A: Uh, sure, but no Floridas... just keep it PG.
Q: What if I don't like my placement or the features where I am?
A: We can change it. Unlike real life Earth, plate tectonics can happen overnight.
Q: Can you add or remove islands or other features?
A: Yes! Easy Peasy
Q: I want to border XYZ Nation, but they no longer exist. What should I do?
A: Nominate them for removal. We will reach out to the nominated nation. Removal process will be at least 30 days, but not longer than 60 days.
Q: Will we run out of space on the map?
A: If we grew that large it would be a great problem to have. So, don't worry about it.
Q: What nations are eligible to be on the map.
A: Any Main nation or puppet that is a resident of the IDU, regardless of population.
Q: Not that I would ever do anything bad, but what if I get ejected from the IDU?
A: You can expect your nation to be removed from the map at the next regular update. Successful ejection appeals may result in map eligibility being restored but won't guarantee same place on the map. May you never have to go through such drama.
Q: What software do you use for creating the map?
A: PaintX at the moment. But it is creating some unfortunate consistency issues that don't scale well. Anyone who has GIMP or Adobe skills is invited to reach out to the Ministry of Cartography.
Q: Can I add a historic nation or nation that no longer exists in the IDU?
A: In the near future, we will add a separate Historical Map that you can add to.
Q: Can you add lines of longitude and latitude?
A: In the future when we use a different program (not PaintX) for edits. They didn't look good when we tried.
Q: Can I add my 10 largest cities?
A: For now, each nation can have a capital city. We will overhaul the map to be able to add more details in the near future. The ministry is happy to provide you with an individual map with your cities upon request.]]> <![CDATA[OFFICIAL MAP 2019 - SOAP (Suggestions, Opinions, Applications, and Polls)]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1996 Wed, 20 Nov 2019 19:15:23 -0600 Gardavasque]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1996
Developing a regional map that adequately meets the requirements of member nations, facilitates national development, promotes role play, and contributes to a satisfying experience for all involved will require input from as many members as possible. Your Cartographers are interested in your suggestions and opinions and will endeavor to be as responsive as possible to as many as possible. As a democratic region, we will occasionally be gathering feedback by asking you to vote on certain issues when no clear consensus is apparent. In time, this thread will be used for submitting applications for map placements as well. This SOAP (Suggestions, Opinions, Applications, and Polls) thread will be used for gathering input from member nations and as a place for debate.

There is a separate thread "OFFICIAL MAP 2019" by [nation]Zamastan[/nation], Regional Cartographer, that will be used for codifying map policies and for accessing the map itself. The thread is currently locked as the map creation is still in its infancy.

Suggestions for Geographic Names
Have a suggestion you would like to propose for inclusion on the map? Use this link to submit your ideas.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1...sp=sharing

Applications Process
For the time being, the application process will be kept relatively simple. To apply for a place on the map, please first familiarize yourself with the map policies on this thread: https://theidu.us/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2088.
Then submit a reply in this forum that includes your nation(s), capital city name(s), and single-sentnece description of where you want to be placed. If you are requesting a space that borders another nation(s), ask the other nations(s) to indicate their consent by commenting "Yes."]]>
Developing a regional map that adequately meets the requirements of member nations, facilitates national development, promotes role play, and contributes to a satisfying experience for all involved will require input from as many members as possible. Your Cartographers are interested in your suggestions and opinions and will endeavor to be as responsive as possible to as many as possible. As a democratic region, we will occasionally be gathering feedback by asking you to vote on certain issues when no clear consensus is apparent. In time, this thread will be used for submitting applications for map placements as well. This SOAP (Suggestions, Opinions, Applications, and Polls) thread will be used for gathering input from member nations and as a place for debate.

There is a separate thread "OFFICIAL MAP 2019" by [nation]Zamastan[/nation], Regional Cartographer, that will be used for codifying map policies and for accessing the map itself. The thread is currently locked as the map creation is still in its infancy.

Suggestions for Geographic Names
Have a suggestion you would like to propose for inclusion on the map? Use this link to submit your ideas.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1...sp=sharing

Applications Process
For the time being, the application process will be kept relatively simple. To apply for a place on the map, please first familiarize yourself with the map policies on this thread: https://theidu.us/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2088.
Then submit a reply in this forum that includes your nation(s), capital city name(s), and single-sentnece description of where you want to be placed. If you are requesting a space that borders another nation(s), ask the other nations(s) to indicate their consent by commenting "Yes."]]> <![CDATA[OFFICIAL MAP -2019]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1995 Wed, 20 Nov 2019 13:49:08 -0600 Zamastan]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1995 CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL MAP

Hello, everyone! I am [nation]Zamastan[/nation], the [region]International Democratic Union[/region]'s Cartographer. Along with the Associate Cartographer, [nation]Gardavasque[/nation], we intend to use this map as a way to bring a new sense of enjoyment and immersion to our region! The map is still a work in progress - there is a lot to be done! Plenty of additional features will be coming soon!

To apply for a spot on the map, please click on this link and place a reply in the forum that includes your nation(s), capital city name(s), and single-sentence description of where you want to be placed. If you are requesting a space that borders another nation(s), ask the other nations(s) to indicate their consent by commenting "Yes."

Some of our map details:
  • FOUR CONTINENTS
  • Constantly updating for additional:
    ISLAND CHAINS,
    COASTAL INLETS,
    LAKES,
    and other GEOGRAPHIC FORMS
  • Inclusion of CAPITAL CITIES

Here are our answers to the following questions that determine the rules of our map and the eligibility for being placed on the map:

What determines a nation's eligibility to be granted a place on the map? (Ex: Does IDU ejection = automatic removal from map? Is there a residency requirement? Does residency correlate with size of nation? Does residency correlate with preference of map placement?)

[box]A nation can be placed on the map regardless of how large or small their NS population is or how much they participate in IDU affairs. However, their nation needs to have been in the IDU for at least a month before being placed on the map - we want the IDU to be an active region! Part of how you can help your chances of being placed on the map more quickly and more acutely to your preferred spot is to be active! Use the RMB! Post in our forums! Otherwise, simply make a request for where you'd like to be placed, and we will do our best to accommodate you. Length of residency will affect how large your nation is, unless deemed otherwise by the Cartographer and Associate Cartographer.

If at any point your nation is ejected from the IDU, however, for proven wrong-doings, your nation will be removed from the map.[/box]


Are puppet nations limited differently than main nations? (Limit to number of puppets? How frequently can a main nation change their puppet placements?)

[box]4 Puppets are allowed (total of 5 nations), but not all at the same request. 2 nations of yours can be allowed in each request, and after that, you'll need to wait for at least 4 months for a change.[/box]


How does a nation's CTE status affect their eligibility for map placement? (ex: remains until claimed by another player, CTE = removal, Cannot be removed, Specifies at time of map designation)

[box]If your nation ceases to exist, the cartographers will wait for at least a month to remove you. We understand that real life takes priority over roleplaying online, and as such, we don't want to penalize you for not being active.[/box]


How much influence will a user have to determine their map location? (ex: applicant specifies a pre-determined plot, applicant specifies a desired feature, applicant gives approximate latitude, Applicant just takes what they get)

[box]The map is completely open, with no plots. That said, the cartographers will deem what is realistic and reasonable for nation size. Over-sized nations are typically going to be denied if nations are brand new and haven't participated much in the region.[/box]


How much influence will a user have to determine their national boundaries? (ex: boundaries drawn at time map is released, boundaries determined at time of map placement, applicant determines boundaries, cartographer determines boundaries?

[box]Make a request for where you would like to be placed, and if you would like to border another nation, make sure to name which nation you intend to border.[/box]


How will unclaimed areas on the map be thought of (ex: wild-lands?, indigenous lands?, unexplored?, existing non-player nations?, existing non-IDU nations?, Not explained?)

[box]We as cartographers consider it to be wild-lands and unexplored territory, fit for modification once a nation claims territory.[/box]


How to manage naming of Oceans, Continents, etc. that would be common to all players (Ex: reuse old names, vote for new names, cartography commission nominates)

[box]Zamastan and Gardavasque will host voting sessions and polls that will sponsor various names for geographic locations.[/box]


ZAMASTAN - CARTOGRAPHER
[Image: New_Zamastan_Flag1.jpg]

GARDAVASQUE - ASSOCIATE CARTOGRAPHER
[Image: Gardavasque_flag.jpg]]]> CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL MAP

Hello, everyone! I am [nation]Zamastan[/nation], the [region]International Democratic Union[/region]'s Cartographer. Along with the Associate Cartographer, [nation]Gardavasque[/nation], we intend to use this map as a way to bring a new sense of enjoyment and immersion to our region! The map is still a work in progress - there is a lot to be done! Plenty of additional features will be coming soon!

To apply for a spot on the map, please click on this link and place a reply in the forum that includes your nation(s), capital city name(s), and single-sentence description of where you want to be placed. If you are requesting a space that borders another nation(s), ask the other nations(s) to indicate their consent by commenting "Yes."

Some of our map details:
  • FOUR CONTINENTS
  • Constantly updating for additional:
    ISLAND CHAINS,
    COASTAL INLETS,
    LAKES,
    and other GEOGRAPHIC FORMS
  • Inclusion of CAPITAL CITIES

Here are our answers to the following questions that determine the rules of our map and the eligibility for being placed on the map:

What determines a nation's eligibility to be granted a place on the map? (Ex: Does IDU ejection = automatic removal from map? Is there a residency requirement? Does residency correlate with size of nation? Does residency correlate with preference of map placement?)

[box]A nation can be placed on the map regardless of how large or small their NS population is or how much they participate in IDU affairs. However, their nation needs to have been in the IDU for at least a month before being placed on the map - we want the IDU to be an active region! Part of how you can help your chances of being placed on the map more quickly and more acutely to your preferred spot is to be active! Use the RMB! Post in our forums! Otherwise, simply make a request for where you'd like to be placed, and we will do our best to accommodate you. Length of residency will affect how large your nation is, unless deemed otherwise by the Cartographer and Associate Cartographer.

If at any point your nation is ejected from the IDU, however, for proven wrong-doings, your nation will be removed from the map.[/box]


Are puppet nations limited differently than main nations? (Limit to number of puppets? How frequently can a main nation change their puppet placements?)

[box]4 Puppets are allowed (total of 5 nations), but not all at the same request. 2 nations of yours can be allowed in each request, and after that, you'll need to wait for at least 4 months for a change.[/box]


How does a nation's CTE status affect their eligibility for map placement? (ex: remains until claimed by another player, CTE = removal, Cannot be removed, Specifies at time of map designation)

[box]If your nation ceases to exist, the cartographers will wait for at least a month to remove you. We understand that real life takes priority over roleplaying online, and as such, we don't want to penalize you for not being active.[/box]


How much influence will a user have to determine their map location? (ex: applicant specifies a pre-determined plot, applicant specifies a desired feature, applicant gives approximate latitude, Applicant just takes what they get)

[box]The map is completely open, with no plots. That said, the cartographers will deem what is realistic and reasonable for nation size. Over-sized nations are typically going to be denied if nations are brand new and haven't participated much in the region.[/box]


How much influence will a user have to determine their national boundaries? (ex: boundaries drawn at time map is released, boundaries determined at time of map placement, applicant determines boundaries, cartographer determines boundaries?

[box]Make a request for where you would like to be placed, and if you would like to border another nation, make sure to name which nation you intend to border.[/box]


How will unclaimed areas on the map be thought of (ex: wild-lands?, indigenous lands?, unexplored?, existing non-player nations?, existing non-IDU nations?, Not explained?)

[box]We as cartographers consider it to be wild-lands and unexplored territory, fit for modification once a nation claims territory.[/box]


How to manage naming of Oceans, Continents, etc. that would be common to all players (Ex: reuse old names, vote for new names, cartography commission nominates)

[box]Zamastan and Gardavasque will host voting sessions and polls that will sponsor various names for geographic locations.[/box]


ZAMASTAN - CARTOGRAPHER
[Image: New_Zamastan_Flag1.jpg]

GARDAVASQUE - ASSOCIATE CARTOGRAPHER
[Image: Gardavasque_flag.jpg]]]> <![CDATA[Cartographer Applications 2019]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1984 Thu, 24 Oct 2019 14:43:46 -0500 Lauchenoiria]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1984 Cartographer Applications

Interested in cartography? Willing to dedicate time to creating a new IDU map? Then apply below to be the IDU’s next cartographer!

We are presently seeking a new cartographer following the resignation of [nation]Sanctaria[/nation]. The new cartographer will need to make a new map from scratch, so it will require a significant time commitment.

If you are interested in becoming the IDU’s next cartographer, please answer the questions below, after which you may be contacted with further questions. Thank you for your interest in the position!

Code:
[u][b]Cartographer Application[/b][/u]

[b]Nation name:[/b]
[b]Do you have any experience with cartography?[/b]
[b]How much time are you willing to dedicate to creating a map initially?[/b]
[b]How often would you seek to update the map after it has initially been created following new requests?[/b]
[b]Would you limit the number of puppets allowed on the map? If so, by how much?[/b]
[b]Would you place a limit on the size of individual nations? If so, would the limit differ based on the length of time people have been in the region, or their activity level within the region?[/b]
[b]Would you want to work collaboratively on the map with other players, or only work on it alone?[/b]
[b]Would you prefer to be contacted with further questions via TG or Discord?[/b]

If you have any further questions, please do feel free to ask below!

Deadline: 16th November]]> Cartographer Applications

Interested in cartography? Willing to dedicate time to creating a new IDU map? Then apply below to be the IDU’s next cartographer!

We are presently seeking a new cartographer following the resignation of [nation]Sanctaria[/nation]. The new cartographer will need to make a new map from scratch, so it will require a significant time commitment.

If you are interested in becoming the IDU’s next cartographer, please answer the questions below, after which you may be contacted with further questions. Thank you for your interest in the position!

Code:
[u][b]Cartographer Application[/b][/u]

[b]Nation name:[/b]
[b]Do you have any experience with cartography?[/b]
[b]How much time are you willing to dedicate to creating a map initially?[/b]
[b]How often would you seek to update the map after it has initially been created following new requests?[/b]
[b]Would you limit the number of puppets allowed on the map? If so, by how much?[/b]
[b]Would you place a limit on the size of individual nations? If so, would the limit differ based on the length of time people have been in the region, or their activity level within the region?[/b]
[b]Would you want to work collaboratively on the map with other players, or only work on it alone?[/b]
[b]Would you prefer to be contacted with further questions via TG or Discord?[/b]

If you have any further questions, please do feel free to ask below!

Deadline: 16th November]]> <![CDATA[New Sensumian Flag]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1926 Tue, 07 May 2019 08:15:57 -0500 Sensumia]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1926
The blue represents the sky above the Dominion.
The green represents the ground of the Dominion.
The red star represents the Dominion Capital Territory.
The white stars represent the four provinces of the Dominion.

The flag has been replaced at all government installations and buildings this morning. It is recommended citizens replace their previous Sensumian flags (which were unfortunately not unique) as quickly as possible by bringing in their old flag at their local Sensumian Citizen Services branch to receive a new flag at no cost.]]>
The blue represents the sky above the Dominion.
The green represents the ground of the Dominion.
The red star represents the Dominion Capital Territory.
The white stars represent the four provinces of the Dominion.

The flag has been replaced at all government installations and buildings this morning. It is recommended citizens replace their previous Sensumian flags (which were unfortunately not unique) as quickly as possible by bringing in their old flag at their local Sensumian Citizen Services branch to receive a new flag at no cost.]]> <![CDATA[IDU Office of Vexillology, ideas and brainstorming]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1864 Fri, 14 Sep 2018 08:41:56 -0500 Nordic Republic of Skoden]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1864 <![CDATA[Map 2018]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1796 Fri, 15 Dec 2017 17:02:40 -0600 Sanctaria]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1796 this post for the current Map.

I've decided to create a new thread because there was so much requests made and changed and lost in the other one, this is easier for me to keep track.

Please post your requests for inclusion in this thread.]]> this post for the current Map.

I've decided to create a new thread because there was so much requests made and changed and lost in the other one, this is easier for me to keep track.

Please post your requests for inclusion in this thread.]]> <![CDATA[New Map Discussion]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1666 Sat, 19 Sep 2015 10:09:48 -0500 Bears Armed]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1666

Basic Information

Earlier threads

The main thread about our original map, whose cartographer was Domnonia, ran from 2006 to 2010 and is at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/707772/23/#new.

The future of the map after Dom had been gone for a while was discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/708329/1/.

The work of Embolalia, extending to his [uncompleted] 'NS Globe' project, was discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/708347/6/#new from 2010 to 2012.

And some work that Belschaft began in 2012 is discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/7431840/2/#new.


'Fractal Reality'
This is a concept that was used at times during earlier map-making and other RP within the region, and that has also been used by other RP-ing regions as well. Basically it not only invokes the 'Multiverse' concept, in which numerous alternative versions of reality exist in some way "parallel" to each other, but says that areas in one version of Reality can come into temporary or prolonged contact (or even exchange places altogether) with areas from other versions, thus helping to explain such matters as multiple nations claiming to occupy the same areas in terms of RL geography, nations appearing & disappearing as their players create them or let them cease to exist OOC, how some nations' histories feature earlier contact with (and perhaps colonists from) countries that aren't on the same maps (At one stage we even had a nation within the region that had two completely different histories, with colonisation from two separate sets of RL cultures, both simultaneously true!), the presence of various species of plants or animals [or other life-forms] that "really" belong in particular RL ranges, and even wholesale changes in the regional maps such as those that Embolalia made... and the Bermuda Triangle?
^_^

Oh, and this also allows for inter-Reality leakages of heat and moisture into or out of specific areas, thus giving them climates slightly different from what would logically be expected from their actual situations, although diffusion [and so on] mean that this still shouldn't be taken to extremes: You still shouldn?t get tropical rainforest in proximity to an ice-cap, for example, unless the latter is relatively small and at a significantly higher altitude than the latter? As I recall, this was used to explain why Malabra?s southern districts have a tropical climate rather than just a sub-tropical one.



Initial Questions

1. Which basic design do we use? There is Domnonia?s original map (visible @ https://app.box.com/shared/fqplfsbso0) on which the region consists of two adjacent continents and various islands, Embolalia's revised design (visible @ https://raw.githubusercontent.com/embola...leproj.png) with those two continents combined but with some further land-masses then added nearby for placing nations belonging to certain other regions, there's a version of the latter without those surrounding lands, there's the possibility of taking the original map and making only some of Embolalia's changes, there?s using RL maps which obviously would not suit those of urrs who have already created more detailed maps of our own nations that fit into either of the non-RL maps, and there is creating a new map altogether but including the current shapes and [possibly] relative locations for any existing nations whose players do not want to see those details changed.

2. Which format do we use for the map's master copies? 'Vector-based' formats such as .pdf & .svg would allow saving the maps as smaller files, and may provide greater flexibility in some respects, but are probably less accessible to the membership in general than 'pixel-based' formats such as .png (which I think is the best option in this category), .bmp, .gif, or .jpg, which might prevent some people who would otherwise want to work on the maps from doing so?

3. Where do we set the map in terms of latitude, and how wide would it extend in terms of longitude? A reference to the original map either in our forum or on NSwiki said that the basic area was from c.22o to 60-somethingo North, although with Dom's consent I added some extensions northwards from The Ursine Northlands, and this seems reasonable to me although I recognise that some people might also want extensions for their own nations southwards into the tropics. If we keep degrees of latitude and longitude on the same scale as each other then this will tell us the region's extent in degrees of longitude too, and I have a table saved [somewhere] that gives the actual distances per degree of longitude for relevant latitudes.

4. For how long are nations kept on the map after they OOC either cease to exist or move into other regions?

5. Should there be a qualifying period of residence, or perhaps level of activity, required before a nation can claim a place on the map?]]>

Basic Information

Earlier threads

The main thread about our original map, whose cartographer was Domnonia, ran from 2006 to 2010 and is at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/707772/23/#new.

The future of the map after Dom had been gone for a while was discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/708329/1/.

The work of Embolalia, extending to his [uncompleted] 'NS Globe' project, was discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/708347/6/#new from 2010 to 2012.

And some work that Belschaft began in 2012 is discussed at http://s10.zetaboards.com/IDU/topic/7431840/2/#new.


'Fractal Reality'
This is a concept that was used at times during earlier map-making and other RP within the region, and that has also been used by other RP-ing regions as well. Basically it not only invokes the 'Multiverse' concept, in which numerous alternative versions of reality exist in some way "parallel" to each other, but says that areas in one version of Reality can come into temporary or prolonged contact (or even exchange places altogether) with areas from other versions, thus helping to explain such matters as multiple nations claiming to occupy the same areas in terms of RL geography, nations appearing & disappearing as their players create them or let them cease to exist OOC, how some nations' histories feature earlier contact with (and perhaps colonists from) countries that aren't on the same maps (At one stage we even had a nation within the region that had two completely different histories, with colonisation from two separate sets of RL cultures, both simultaneously true!), the presence of various species of plants or animals [or other life-forms] that "really" belong in particular RL ranges, and even wholesale changes in the regional maps such as those that Embolalia made... and the Bermuda Triangle?
^_^

Oh, and this also allows for inter-Reality leakages of heat and moisture into or out of specific areas, thus giving them climates slightly different from what would logically be expected from their actual situations, although diffusion [and so on] mean that this still shouldn't be taken to extremes: You still shouldn?t get tropical rainforest in proximity to an ice-cap, for example, unless the latter is relatively small and at a significantly higher altitude than the latter? As I recall, this was used to explain why Malabra?s southern districts have a tropical climate rather than just a sub-tropical one.



Initial Questions

1. Which basic design do we use? There is Domnonia?s original map (visible @ https://app.box.com/shared/fqplfsbso0) on which the region consists of two adjacent continents and various islands, Embolalia's revised design (visible @ https://raw.githubusercontent.com/embola...leproj.png) with those two continents combined but with some further land-masses then added nearby for placing nations belonging to certain other regions, there's a version of the latter without those surrounding lands, there's the possibility of taking the original map and making only some of Embolalia's changes, there?s using RL maps which obviously would not suit those of urrs who have already created more detailed maps of our own nations that fit into either of the non-RL maps, and there is creating a new map altogether but including the current shapes and [possibly] relative locations for any existing nations whose players do not want to see those details changed.

2. Which format do we use for the map's master copies? 'Vector-based' formats such as .pdf & .svg would allow saving the maps as smaller files, and may provide greater flexibility in some respects, but are probably less accessible to the membership in general than 'pixel-based' formats such as .png (which I think is the best option in this category), .bmp, .gif, or .jpg, which might prevent some people who would otherwise want to work on the maps from doing so?

3. Where do we set the map in terms of latitude, and how wide would it extend in terms of longitude? A reference to the original map either in our forum or on NSwiki said that the basic area was from c.22o to 60-somethingo North, although with Dom's consent I added some extensions northwards from The Ursine Northlands, and this seems reasonable to me although I recognise that some people might also want extensions for their own nations southwards into the tropics. If we keep degrees of latitude and longitude on the same scale as each other then this will tell us the region's extent in degrees of longitude too, and I have a table saved [somewhere] that gives the actual distances per degree of longitude for relevant latitudes.

4. For how long are nations kept on the map after they OOC either cease to exist or move into other regions?

5. Should there be a qualifying period of residence, or perhaps level of activity, required before a nation can claim a place on the map?]]> <![CDATA[Aleutherian Flag-Makers]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1527 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 15:03:36 -0600 Free Aleutheria]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1527
If you are interested in this offer, please send a telegram to the UKFA describing your request. Also, if you're short on ideas, just say so in the telegram and our artists will be more than happy to advise you and make suggestions to get the creative juices flowing!

All flag designs are made free of charge and will be shipped with a complimentary set of Athbridge University Press' New Encyclopaedia of Vexillology.]]>
If you are interested in this offer, please send a telegram to the UKFA describing your request. Also, if you're short on ideas, just say so in the telegram and our artists will be more than happy to advise you and make suggestions to get the creative juices flowing!

All flag designs are made free of charge and will be shipped with a complimentary set of Athbridge University Press' New Encyclopaedia of Vexillology.]]> <![CDATA[IDU Regional Map - Belschaft]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1505 Sun, 19 Aug 2012 18:18:24 -0500 Belschaft]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1505

Edit: Too make it clear, the issue is primarily one of scale. To convert Embo's map into my own graphics style I have to more than double it in size. Even when just limiting it to the IDU itself, that produces an image 6000x3500 pixels in size. That's a total of 21000000 pixels. I can rapidly turn the image into lineart using paint.net, but first I need to trace out the various borders and the actual coastlines itself. That takes a lot of time.]]>

Edit: Too make it clear, the issue is primarily one of scale. To convert Embo's map into my own graphics style I have to more than double it in size. Even when just limiting it to the IDU itself, that produces an image 6000x3500 pixels in size. That's a total of 21000000 pixels. I can rapidly turn the image into lineart using paint.net, but first I need to trace out the various borders and the actual coastlines itself. That takes a lot of time.]]> <![CDATA[Sidh Ohn's Wiki]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1404 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 22:09:28 -0500 Jade Tigers]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1404 http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=Sidh_Ohn

Those of you who saw it before will note the removal of the Tharn tribe and the description of the borders. This is part of the overhall in background and history that the new map allows me. I will keep this topic updated with any additions as they are made. In the meantime, I always love to hear any comments you all might have. Smile]]> http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=Sidh_Ohn

Those of you who saw it before will note the removal of the Tharn tribe and the description of the borders. This is part of the overhall in background and history that the new map allows me. I will keep this topic updated with any additions as they are made. In the meantime, I always love to hear any comments you all might have. Smile]]> <![CDATA[The Future Of The Map]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1391 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 14:53:09 -0500 Embolalia]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1391
Of about 49 nations on the map, from about 42 players, Malabra, Bears Armed, Old Ceorana, Baranxtu, Jagera, and Embolalia are still in the region. I'm sure there are more that have requested spots that just haven't gotten them yet.

So I'm wondering what we should do about the map. The way I see it, we have a few options:

Option 1:
Do nothing. We wait for Dom to come back, and hope he stays to edit the map. The downside is, that may never happen. And in the meantime, we don't get any changes to the map.

Option 2:
Someone takes over maintaining Dom's map. This has the upside of keeping the wonderful map Dom made us, and not making anyone move.
The downside is, we don't have source files. I doubt Dom was editing right into the PDF; he probably has (or had) an svg or Illustrator file that he was working with. I've tried editing the PDF directly, and it's very difficult. It's slow, there are no layers, and I don't know his methods and conventions for doing it. I'm willing to give this another go, but it's really just a stop-gap until Dom comes back. Another point, we need to decide which, if any, of the old nations to remove. A lot of those nations haven't been active in my memory. I know we like to keep spots available in case a nation comes back, but right now the map is crowded with barely any active nations.

Option 3:
We appoint a new cartographer, and make a new map. I have one from a little while back, which is inspired by, but quite different from, our current one. It, too, is scalable, but slightly smaller. I am willing to take on the duty of cartographer, and I would keep my source files (Inkscape SVG) updated and uploaded in case I CTE'd. Downside, everyone (All 6 of us) would have to move, and old spots would not be available to nations if they return.


Anyone have preferences, or another idea?]]>
Of about 49 nations on the map, from about 42 players, Malabra, Bears Armed, Old Ceorana, Baranxtu, Jagera, and Embolalia are still in the region. I'm sure there are more that have requested spots that just haven't gotten them yet.

So I'm wondering what we should do about the map. The way I see it, we have a few options:

Option 1:
Do nothing. We wait for Dom to come back, and hope he stays to edit the map. The downside is, that may never happen. And in the meantime, we don't get any changes to the map.

Option 2:
Someone takes over maintaining Dom's map. This has the upside of keeping the wonderful map Dom made us, and not making anyone move.
The downside is, we don't have source files. I doubt Dom was editing right into the PDF; he probably has (or had) an svg or Illustrator file that he was working with. I've tried editing the PDF directly, and it's very difficult. It's slow, there are no layers, and I don't know his methods and conventions for doing it. I'm willing to give this another go, but it's really just a stop-gap until Dom comes back. Another point, we need to decide which, if any, of the old nations to remove. A lot of those nations haven't been active in my memory. I know we like to keep spots available in case a nation comes back, but right now the map is crowded with barely any active nations.

Option 3:
We appoint a new cartographer, and make a new map. I have one from a little while back, which is inspired by, but quite different from, our current one. It, too, is scalable, but slightly smaller. I am willing to take on the duty of cartographer, and I would keep my source files (Inkscape SVG) updated and uploaded in case I CTE'd. Downside, everyone (All 6 of us) would have to move, and old spots would not be available to nations if they return.


Anyone have preferences, or another idea?]]>