Project information
Identification of barriers in the process of communication of spatial socio-demographic information (BACOSO)

The most efficient way to transmit spatial information is through visualization using maps, but the effectiveness of these maps is dependent on the visualization methods used. The usability of long-established methods has already been proven; with the development of new technology, advanced approaches which have not yet been sufficiently user-tested are emerging. These approaches include infographics, visualizations known from data journalism, 3D visualizations, and the use of virtual environments. To streamline the communication process, it is necessary to analyse the impact of visualization methods on users. The key is to verify the effectiveness of information flows between the author of a visualization and the users of that visualization in disciplines like sociology and demography. Barriers disrupting this process and leading to the loss of information will be identified. Subsequently, modifications to visualizations which will lead to the elimination of these barriers will be designed. The result will increase the usability of advanced visualization approaches.