A user perspective on atlas content and design

Abstract A survey was conducted to solicit user input into thematic content and design parameters when setting out to edit a new provincial atlas. Special interest groups and the general public were questioned about their behaviour and opinions regarding four aspects of atlases; general atlas use, general opinion on atlas content and design, suggestions for topics for an atlas of the province of British Columbia, and knowledge and interest in non-traditional methods of atlas presentation. This article discusses the issue of soliciting user input in atlas design and content, introduces the survey conducted, and reports on respondents' general atlas use and their opinions concerning content and design.