The problem of labeling a map's features is referred to as the name placement problem. It involves the placement of clustered map labels (e.g., names of cities) so that they do not overlap while still being spatially associated with their intended map features (e.g., the points showing the location of cities). The labels must be legible, they must not overlap other labels or point features, they must be unambiguously associated with the features they are to label, and their placement, font and size must conform to the appropriate cartographic standards. Finally, a high aesthetic quality will facilitate the ease of understanding of the map and this will enhance the map's effectiveness as a communication
medium.
On maps with dense features, features are close together, leaving little free space for labels and inevitably forcing compromises on the placement decisions. GIS techniques could be used to automatically resolve labeling conflicts while maintaining the favorable characteristics of a well-designed map.