Map-off the city: How uncertain places are represented in sketch maps

Anacta,VJA, Humayun, MI, Schwering, A

Abstract

The paper evaluates different visualization techniques for uncertain places in route sketch maps. Vague places, for instance, are often used in daily communication but there is a lack of extensive research on how to visualize them. In this study, we asked 20 participants to draw a specific route on the sketch maps with selected places in the city that have uncertain boundaries. A previously developed visualization classification scheme is used to categorize them. We found that participants usually combine labels with any bounded shape to represent uncertain places. This is followed by the use of a simple label to visualize the place in the sketch maps. The various classifications provide ideas of how uncertain places may be visualized and the results may be incorporated in designing better interfaces for various information systems.