ARAMANI – Decision-Support Tool for Selecting Optimal Participatory Mapping Method
ISBN 978-85-88783-11-9
Authors
1Panek, J.
1DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES, PALACKY UNIVERSITY Email: jirkapanek@gmail.com
Abstract
Participatory mapping is an emerging practice in the community development discourse. With its roots in the Participatory Rural Appraisal, it brings active involvement of the community and subjectivity of non-cartographers into the spotlight. The crucial question is how one can choose the most optimal method for participatory mapping, taking into account the specific needs and assets of the community. In this paper, the author presents the ARAMANI tool, expert knowledge-based decision support system operating with ten participatory mapping methods and experience of 172 survey responders. ARAMANI tool allows users to describe their community assets and needs while combining them with a value-based system for deciding which method to select. The tool is designed as a user-friendly webpage with guidelines and examples of best practices for each method.