Technology has totally changed the way maps are made and geographical areas are represented, both regarding the calculation methods and the materials and technology used (nowadays we use databases instead of paper)
In times past, geographers had to rely on anachronistic tools to create maps. Therefore, the accuracy of their calculations was often very poor. Observation and information collected from travelers, sailors and merchants was usually the most common way to create maps, in the absence of more reliable sources. Nowadays, computerized mapping and satellites make it a lot easier to map and represent large geographical areas. In conclusion, the advance of technology has been fundamental for the creation of better and more accurate maps.