Cartography and information presentation: a graphics/visualization perspective

Over the last 15 years spatial databases and mapping services have become one of the most important applications on the Internet. In that time we have seen transformative increases in the availability of spatial data such as detailed satellite, streetside and casual images, 3D terrain and building models, and real-time traffic information. Such data has made it possible to create a variety of new kinds of maps and online experiences of any location on earth. Yet, only a handful of different kinds of maps are available online today. Moreover, it is not always clear what task today's online maps are designed to solve. This talk presents a user-centered view of map design. Some of the difficult spatial tasks people regularly face as they navigate the world are described and the long history of mapmaking is drawn upon to show a variety of maps that are carefully designed to address these tasks. Examples include maps designed to help users find their way from one location to another, to aid viewers in better understanding the spatial layout of 3D environments, and to assist tourists in finding points of interest in a new city. The talk concludes with a set of open challenges for online map design.