Improvement of GIS graphics for analysis and decision-making |
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| Authors: | ROBERT WEIBEL BARBARA P BUTTENFIELD |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Geography , University of Zurich (Irchel) , Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland;2. National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, Department of Geography , State University of New York at Buffalo , Buffalo, New York, 14260, U.S.A. |
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| Abstract: | Abstract Current geographical information systems (GIS) include functions to create cartographic output interactively or automatically. However, none of the systems presently incorporates mechanisms to ensure correct application of graphic functions. Many of today's users of GIS are not trained in the design and production of graphics and may create maps that confuse or mislead map users. Poorly-designed maps may obliterate the patterns in displayed information. This article investigates ways to improve the quality of GIS graphical displays and increase their effectiveness for decision-making. Alternatives are presented for improving map design in GIS, ranging from non-technical efforts to enhancement of software functionality. Suggestions propose augmenting users' abilities to create maps in an automated environment, using an approach termed amplified intelligence: key decisions default explicitly to users, whose knowledge is amplified by a range of high-level tools to carry out map design operations automatically. |
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