StoryMaps: Design a Dynamic and Spatially-Driven Narrative

Here's my recommended workflow for creating your own StoryMap:

1. Activate your StoryMaps account using your Brandeis login. 
    
2. Check out examples:
   1. StoryMaps created by ESRI. Use the filters/search feature to explore StoryMaps related to your project.
   2. You can also search for non-ESRI affiliates' projects by Googling "[your topic] + StoryMaps". 
   3. Search examples within the Brandeis community.
3. Ask yourself:
   • How are the dynamic features embedded in StoryMaps improving my experience as a reader?
   • Do I think this layout works well with the topic?
   • How are places differently represented on the map? 
   • Did the creator make effective design choices? Think about: font size/style/color, use of headings, etc.
      
4. Learn the basics:
   • Start with my Basic Sidecar StoryMap tutorial, written for a beginner. 

   • ESRI has their own series of tutorials. Here are some good beginner options:

     • Tutorial #2: Getting started with StoryMaps

     • Tutorial #3: The anatomy of a story

     • Tutorial #5: Use express maps to help tell your story

     • Tutorial #6: Add a Sidecar to your story
       
       

5. Decide on your StoryMap layout. Learn about the different options in Tutorial #7 or on the StoryMaps Layout Examples page, which explains what template to use to achieve a certain layout. 
    
6. Using Tutorial #4 and the Outline your StoryMap guide, start to plan your project.
    
7. Begin to build. Peruse additional tutorials as needed:

   • Tutorial #8: Create your first guided tour in StoryMaps

   • Tutorial #9: Add an Explorer Map Tour to your story

   • Tutorial #10: Create a data-driven Map Tour

   • Tutorial #11: Add a Swipe Block to your story

   • Tutorial #12: Embedding content in ArcGIS StoryMaps
      

8. In the final stages of your project, take time to critically assess your design choices. These two tutorials can help improve accessibility for vision-impaired individuals, and ensure your project looks professional and cohesive.
   • Tutorial #14: Add flavor to your stories 
   • Tutorial #15: Getting started with accessible storytelling