Effective Graphic Features for Multivariate Symbol Mapping

Abstract

Various patterns of cartographic multivariate symbols (MSs) have been developed to work efficiently with objective symbol mapping. One such MS pattern is composed of a graph that uses spatial data to represent statistical data. A preliminary study revealed major problems with users’ perceptions and understanding of the symbol. These problems present obstacles to the presentation objectives. We are therefore interested in studying the human factors that contribute to the visual perception of graph symbols. We predict that the graph symbols currently in use are too complex for viewers to fully understand what they are intended to represent. This research aims to study the mechanisms and behaviours of human visual perception that are necessary to understand cartography MSs and to determine a more effective prototype symbol that presents and conveys information to viewers more efficiently. The prototype design is based on a basic cartographic symbol and includes the characteristics and properties of the original patterns of graph symbols via a study of their pros and cons. Graphic structures and properties were modified to create a more effective symbol.