Changing perspectives through rooted maps

So, I just ran across this article in the McKinsey Quarterly.  In this article maps of the world are not considered solely in terms of geography. By considering factors such as oil export/import, the film industry, national exposure to European bank loans, the world looks like a very different place. The author says:

Shake up your thinking by looking at the world from the perspective of a particular country, industry, or company. “Rooted” maps can help you unearth hidden opportunities and threats.

I really wonder what STEM would look like through this type of mapping.  I could imagine comparing what brain "circulation" maps with productivity, spending, age demographics, patenting etc. could be really fascinating.  I would love to find out how to produce such maps.