Seeking optimal usability to avoid information overload: Comparing gradual with non-gradual scale transitions in web-based maps (GRADUAL)
We have proposed a new concept named Space Scale Cube (SSC) in which map data once stored in a vario-scale data structure can be used for generating maps at all wanted scales in a gradual and smooth way for use on the web. This leads to what we call a vario-scale map, which makes user interaction possible, where a delta in scale (small zoom step) leads to a small change in geographic content of the map.
Past research has indicated that these scale transitions can be made more gradual. In this KIP research project we will compare web maps (with gradual transitions) with fixed scale maps (without gradual transitions) by designing and carrying out a usability study.
The development of the vario-scale web maps including more gradual scale transitions will take place at Delft University of Technology, section GISt. The usability study will be carried out at University of Twente (ITC), in the usability lab of the GIP department, where eye tracking hardware, as well as software for analysis is available. This comparative evaluation of web maps with gradual and non-gradual scale transitions will lead to knowledge on what users (dis)like in interacting with these web maps.
Team
Researchers
- Georgios Dimopoulos (University of Twente)
- Martijn Meijers (Delft University of Technology)
- Dongliang Peng (Delft University of Technology)
- Paolo Raposo (University of Twente)
User committee
- RVO (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland)
Papers
- Dongliang Peng, Martijn Meijers, Peter van Oosterom, Multi-layer vario-scale web map comparer with dynamic transitions and visual analytical tool, In: Proceedings of 23rd ICA Workshop on Generalisation and Multiple Representation, Delft, on-line, pp. 8, 2020. PDF.
- Dongliang Peng, Martijn Meijers, Peter van Oosterom, Paralleling generalization operations to support smooth zooming: case study of merging area objects, In: Proceedings of 23rd Workshop on Generalisation and Multiple Representation, Delft, on-line, pp. 8, 2020. PDF.
Presentations
- NCG Workshop on Creating Interactive Online Maps
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A tutorial on creating interactive vario-scale web maps:
- Presentations at ICA workshop November 2020
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Presentations of the 2 papers above:
- Multi-layer vario-scale web map comparer with dynamic transitions and visual analytical tool: Youtube video
- Paralleling generalization operations to support smooth zooming: case study of merging area objects: Youtube video
- Presentations at GISt Lunch seminar
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GISt Lunch seminar of 2020-11-26 (slides+recording)
Prototypes
The developed prototypes are available on Github:
- Simultaneously merging multiple areas: https://pengdlzn.github.io/webmaps/2020/10/merge/
- Fixed scale maps versus continuous maps I: https://pengdlzn.github.io/webmaps/2020/12/dryness/drenthe-dryness-comparer-juxtaposition.html
- Fixed scale maps versus continuous maps II: https://pengdlzn.github.io/webmaps/2020/10/merge/drenthe-comparer-juxtaposition-swipe.html