Effectiveness of scalable vector graphics (SVG) for client-side vector mapping

Abstract

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is an effective web map technology for client-side vector mapping. We demonstrate this through a web map application developed for the Trans-Border Institute of the University of San Diego. The Trans-Border Institute currently releases reports summarizing data on the number of drug-related homicides in Mexico and produces maps to show drug-related killings in each Mexican state. Together, the reports and maps are used to inform U. S. audiences about the public security situation in Mexico and the effects of the war on drugs. The deadly consequences of the drug-war in Mexico become clear in the maps produced by the Trans-Border Institute. The maps, however, are not as effective as they could be because they are released as static images. These static images do not allow for the exploration of the data themselves and make it difficult to view changes over time. To facilitate data exploration and thereby assist the Trans-Border Institute in more effectively disseminating information on the drug-war in Mexico, an interactive web map was developed using SVG. For client side vector graphics, SVG provides clear advantages in that it is open, interoperable, and extensible and is resolution independent. In addition, behaviors, including animation, can be included in the markup file itself or added through scripting. These advantages make SVG optimal for developing high quality interactive (and non-interactive) vector maps. Despite these advantages, SVG has not been widely adopted. However, recent technological changes and trends have made competing systems, like Flash, less optimal and have heightened the awareness and ease of using SVG. Combined, these changes have paved the way for SVG becoming the most widely used client-side vector standard. Its effectiveness is demonstrated in an SVG-based, interactive web map developed for the Trans-Border Institute and shown in this presentation.