Since the end of 1970s North America began to produce maps in large quantity with the help of computer technology.

Since the early 1990s, the US Geological Survey replaces the production of topographic maps on paper on what is called the "national map". National map is actually not a map, but a set of standards for the production of analog and digital maps.

Dissemination of cartographic information was accelerated by using a global positioning system (GPS) and the development of a relatively powerful and easy-to-use geographic information systems (GIS). A pioneer in the commercial GIS was a Californian company Institute of Environmental Systems Research (ESRI).

In the 21st century, a new stage in the development of cartography marked an opportunity for ordinary people to participate in the creation or modification of maps.