Guidance for crystal ball gazers: developing a code of ethics for landscape visualization

Abstract Computer visualization of landscapes in three or four dimensions constitutes a “crystal ball” capable of showing us views into the future. This paper discusses the risks of the growing but unstructured use of these landscape visualizations as a popular decision-making and public communications tool in planning. The author argues that we need to establish a framework for guidance and supporting resources for the use of landscape visualization, including accepted procedures, training, appropriate databases, and a communication network for users. In particular, it is argued that the preparers of visualizations — whom we can think of as the “crystal ball gazers” who conjure up and interpret the imagery — need to be governed by a code of ethics for defensible landscape visualization. Drawing on research on visualization effectiveness and validity, as well as anecdotal evidence from professional practice, the paper identifies potential problems associated with emerging visualization technologies, and reviews the needs for, progress toward, and potential benefits of a support infrastructure for visualization preparers and presenters. A framework for guidance and support of visualization practitioners is proposed, in the hope of improving the chances of ethical practice and scientific validity in the use of these systems. Pending more comprehensive findings from the considerable body of research which is needed on this subject, an interim code of ethics is presented, for consideration, testing, and amendment by other researchers and users. It is suggested that such a code include broad principles and guidance on ethical conduct in producing visualizations, presenting them to viewers, and analysing responses to them from users as feedback. Implications for future research and practice are provided, with an emphasis on the urgent need for researchers to monitor and evaluate the use and influence of landscape visualizations in practice.