Research on Usability Testing and Cognitive Issues of Cartographic Visualizations in the Context of Different Groups of Users
| Authors | |
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| Year of publication | 2015 |
| Type | Article in Proceedings |
| Conference | FIG Working Week 2015 |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Web | http://www.fig.net/pub/fig2015/papers/ts03a/TS03A_terba_konecn_et_al_7854.pdf |
| Field | Earth magnetism, geography |
| Keywords | Cartographic visualization; Usability; User; Cognitive Style |
| Description | Maps are commonly considered an effective way for transferring geoinformation to a wide variety of user groups. Most cartographic products are used by people who need to arrive at the target information as quickly as possible and with an appropriate level of accuracy and comprehensibility. Yet, cartographic products have not always been designed strictly according to their primary purpose and the needs of specific groups of users. It is therefore necessary to properly evaluate each new cartographic visualization and obtain feedback on its usability. This process requires the evaluator to consider all potentially relevant cognitive aspects influencing perception of cartographic information in a specific group of users for whom the map is intended. One has to be extremely careful about considering these factors especially when designing and evaluating applications used in emergency services. Cartographic visualizations and tools used in this field should also be designed with the personality of the user in mind. The present paper overviews some of the most relevant aspects that should be taken into account when testing the usability of cartographic products with respect to the user’s personality. |
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