Research of User Preferences for Functionality of Internet Maps
ISBN 978-85-88783-11-9
Authors
1Balciunas, A.; 2Beconyte, G.
1VILNIUS UNIVERSITY Email: andrius.balciunas@gf.vu.lt
2VILNIUS UNIVERSITY Email: giedre.beconyte@gf.vu.lt
Abstract
Quality of operations that can be interactively performed by users (map functions) is crucially important in the process of use of interactive Internet maps. The concept of map functionality determines the capabilities provided to the user, such as viewing, analysis or integral management of map elements. This paper presents a recently developed framework and specially developed tool for research on functionality of Internet maps. The research tool has been designed for collection of information about users’ preferences in an interactive way. Web based application CartoUI (www.cartoui.com) allows users to express their ideas about map functions and layout design by compiling their own Internet map prototypes. The paper also introduces the results of experiment with 75 users who have created different prototypes of simple maps. Their preferences have been analyzed in order to prepare general user-driven requirements for Internet maps that are presented in the paper.
Keywords
Internet maps; Functionality; Usability