Uncertainty in Geographic Data on Bivariate Maps: An Examination of Visualization Preference and Decision Making
Date
2014-10
Authors
Scholz, Ruojing W.
Lu, Yongmei
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute
Abstract
Uncertainty exists widely in geographic data. However, it is often disregarded during data analysis and decision making. Proper visualization of uncertainty can help map users understand uncertainty in geographic data and make informed decisions. The study reported in this paper examines map users’ perception of and preferences for different visual variables to report uncertainty on bivariate maps. It also explores the possible impact that knowledge and training in Geographic Information Sciences and Systems (GIS) may have on map users’ decision making with uncertainty information. A survey was conducted among college students with and without GIS training. The results showed that boundary fuzziness and color lightness were the most preferred visual variables for representing uncertainty using bivariate maps. GIS knowledge and training was found helpful for some survey participants in their decision making using bivariate uncertainty maps. The results from this case study provide guidance for reporting uncertainty on bivariate maps, aiming at encouraging informed decision making.
Description
Keywords
bivariate map, uncertainty visualization, decision making, visual variable, geographic Information Sciences and Systems (GIS), Geography and Environmental Studies
Citation
Scholz, R. W., & Lu, Y. (2014). Uncertainty in geographic data on bivariate maps: An examination of visualization preference and decision making. International Journal of Geo-Information, 3(4), pp. 1180-1197.
Rights
Rights Holder
© 2014 The Authors.
Rights License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.