The first step to storytelling isn't building, it's prepping. Take time to think through key decisions, like who's your ideal reader? What do you want them to learn? Think about how you'll use photos and maps to underscore main points.
Outlining your story can be a huge help here. Choose whatever outline format makes it easiest to experiment with different ideas.
It's time to jump into the story builder. Follow your outline and use the block palette to add content. Don't be afraid to try different options.
Remember, story crafting is an iterative process. While an outline helps focus your thoughts, it's OK to deviate from the plan if it's not accomplishing what you wanted. Give yourself time to explore new ideas.
Using maps in a story helps readers connect with your message; with StoryMaps there are a few ways to quickly add them to your narrative.
Express maps let you easily draw points, lines, and areas for a simple, custom map in minutes. You can even add helpful details like text or arrows. If you need your map to go further, you can always bring in a web map (or 3D web scene).
A story's look and feel are what first alert a reader to your narrative's tone. Luckily, the themes in ArcGIS StoryMaps make it easy to try out different aesthetics to see which one fits your story best. Choose a new theme to see different font pairings, color schemes, and basemaps.
You'll also find layout options for your story's cover in the design panel.
When you're ready, publish your story to share your work with just your organization or with everyone. The shared URL will use the story's title, subtitle, and first image in a card that's perfect for social media.
Want to revise a story you've already shared? No problem. Make your edits and see them saved as unpublished changes. Just re-publish your story when you're ready.
June 2020 StoryMaps Live webinar recording
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Adding alternative text in ArcGIS StoryMaps
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