This article explores the unique approach of ODT, Inc., a cartography and geographic education company from Amherst, Massachusetts, that spent decades challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging fresh perspectives on global geography.
ODT’s work went beyond map publishing—it aimed to deepen understanding of our interconnected global community. Here’s the story of how the company came to be, the distinctive products that set it apart, and the legacy it leaves behind, including maps and resources still available today.
The Birth of ODT, Inc.
For nearly half a century, ODT, Inc. held a distinctive place in the worlds of geography, mapmaking, and education. The seeds for this innovative enterprise were planted in the 1970s by founder Bob Abramms. His goal: to challenge norms, spark new ways of thinking about global geography, and help people see the world as a deeply connected whole.
Abramms began his career running a consulting firm focused on employee empowerment, performance appraisal, and self-directed work teams. In 1989, he made a pivotal change—integrating Peters Projection map materials into his corporate culture change, leadership, and diversity projects. This marked ODT’s transformation from a traditional consulting firm into a pioneering map publisher. Over time, ODT would primarily operate as a publisher and distributor of products designed to help people view the world from new perspectives.
Pioneering Geographic Products
ODT’s reputation grew through its distinctive and sometimes provocative map offerings. From the Peters Projection World Map to the Hobo-Dyer equal-area map, the company consistently challenged conventional cartography. Its bold “What’s Up? South!” map flipped the world upside down, questioning the assumption that north should always be at the top. The World Population Map offered yet another fresh perspective by resizing countries according to their population rather than their land area.
Impactful Publications and Multimedia
ODT’s innovation extended beyond maps. The books it distributed, such as Seeing Through Maps: Many Ways to See the World and the Arno Peters World Atlas (by Ullmann), encouraged readers to consider new viewpoints and reflect on the role maps play in shaping understanding. These works perfectly reflected the company’s mission to broaden perspectives and highlight global interconnectedness.
True to its inventive spirit, ODT also embraced multimedia. The educational DVD Many Ways to See the World introduced viewers to alternative map projections, explored the origins of the South-up map, and shared Arno Peters’ mission to create a fairer map representation for all. In just 30 minutes, the film blended history, geography, and social commentary to challenge assumptions about how the world is portrayed.
Recognition and Influence
In February 2001, ODT’s Peters Projection map reached a national audience when it appeared on the acclaimed TV series The West Wing. The moment marked a milestone in the company’s visibility and reinforced its reputation as an innovator in map publishing. Products like the World Population Map continued to influence discussions about geography and representation.
A Team Effort
While ODT, Inc. was founded by Bob Abramms, its success came from a team of skilled and passionate individuals, each bringing unique expertise:
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Bob Abramms – After transitioning his business toward publishing alternative maps, he served as project director for the Population Map, beginning in 2001. Collaborating with Fred Pearce in the UK and Bill Yoder in Arizona, he gathered historical population data and GIS cartograms, which were combined into the map’s design with Denis Wood. Abramms also co-authored Seeing Through Maps with Wood and Ward Kaiser.
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Denis Wood – A leading authority on the meaning and interpretation of maps, Wood is a social scientist and author with more than 60 articles and several books to his name. With advanced degrees in geography, he has spent his career teaching, consulting, and exploring the cultural significance of cartography.
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Ann Hopkins – A former university instructor with extensive experience living abroad in India, Australia, and Hong Kong, Hopkins developed English as a Second Language programs focused on cross-cultural communication. Joining ODT in 2005 as Director of Sales, she contributed to both editorial and developmental projects.
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Howard Bronstein – Serving as ODT’s only president since 1988, Bronstein combined his skills as a map publisher, raft guide, and business educator. He worked closely with Abramms to expand ODT’s international reach.
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Ward Kaiser – With a background spanning publishing, business leadership, teaching, and community work, Kaiser was instrumental in introducing the Peters Projection to North America. A frequent speaker and workshop leader, he helped spread ODT’s message of challenging geographic stereotypes.
Together, this team brought diverse skills, shared values, and a commitment to encouraging people to see the world in new ways.
Mission and Legacy
Throughout its history, ODT, Inc. remained committed to one central mission: to celebrate differences and promote a broader, more inclusive view of the world. This philosophy shaped every product they offered—from maps that overturned geographic conventions to books and videos that invited viewers to question their assumptions.
In 2021, ODT, Inc. ceased operations following the retirement of its team. But the company’s influence endures. Its dedication to rethinking how the world is mapped has left a lasting imprint on geography education and inspired countless people to look at the globe with fresh eyes.
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