Geographic Visualization: the facilitation of understanding any data within a spatial context.
Geographic visualization appears on:
-the computer screen
-high resolution screens
-mobile devices
-the physical environment (projected)
-wayfinding devices (GPS devices)
-scopes and binoculars
-wristwatches
-information kiosks
-vehicle dashboards
-remote sensing displays
-electronic signage
-paper/static materials
..providing a plethora of platforms and interface opportunities depending on the context it is displayed. I am going to break geographic visualization into clusters depending on the presentation platform.
- For Static Publishing (Paper or Screen):
Information Graphics/ Illustrations (Tufte)
Thematic Maps (Static GIS & Wayfinding Maps)
Plans (Static maps of the present and future simultaneously)
Charts & Tables
- For Dynamic Low Resolution Remote Sensing (You are here maps):
Locator Map
Trail/Topography Map
GPS Wayfinding Maps
Traffic Maps
Weather Maps
- For High Resolution Displays (Zoomable):
Photography (Aerial)
Panoramic Photography (360 views from static location)
Video (Motion Graphics)
- For Personal Computer Interactivity (High or Low Resolution):
Globe Explorer/ Geographic Information System
Scenario-based movies
Web-based Maps
Forms, Interfaces, Dashboards
- For the Physical Environment:
2D motion graphics (Projected)
2D Signage Dynamic or Static (See Also Static Publishing)
In-Car Navigation Aid
3D icons, models, and avatars (Augmented)
3D Branded Environmental Graphics (Physical Objects)
Cell Phones
Kindle 2/Portable Devices
