Web Mapping
Goal 1
Development of the concept of modular Web-based Atlas Information Systems AIS that adapt functionality and used technology in real time to the resources available on the client and to the user's access rights, needs and expertise.Results 1
An architecture for the rapid implementation of self-adapting Web-based Atlas Information Systems was developed using Java (EJB and Servlets) on the server side, and a thin, platform-independent architecture on the client side (SVG, Java Applet, JavaScript). The client is easily scalable to different applications and Web techniques, and its modular architecture allows for rapid integration of new custom-tailored functionality.
High-level view of the AIS client architecture.
Goal 2
Development of an authoring software for the generation of interactive Web maps that allows a map designer to easily define advanced interactive features for Web maps. The system must be independent of a specific output format (e.g. Flash or SVG).Results 2
A prototype of an authoring software for interactive Web maps, generating various thematic representations (proportional symbols, choropleth maps, bar charts) with associated interactive legends. Interactivity can be added by the map designer using a "pipe" metaphor: event handlers can be attached to outlets that generate events and are connected to event consumers that change their appearance or content. The prototype was developed in Java.
Interface for connecting event handlers with map elements using the "pipes" metaphor.
Goal 3
Compilation of design principles for the design of Web maps that should help designers improve the quality of their maps.Results 3
A compilation of design principles of information graphics was compiled, tested and published. Topics include the choice of the viewing technology; the influence of limited screen resolution and anti-aliasing; minimum dimensions and distances for graphic features; the scale-dependent generalization of information density and geometry; problems of screen typography; color rendition; and the design of user-friendly navigation tools.
Selection criteria for types that are optimally readable on screen.
Minimum distances between areas and lines for printed maps (left) and screen maps (right).
Publications
Jenny, H., Neumann, A., Jenny, B. and Hurni, L. (s.d.). A WYSIWYG interface for user-friendly access to geospatial data collections. In: M. Jobst and H. Kremers (editors), Prospective Cartographic Heritage, Berlin Heidelberg New York: Springer [accepted for publication].
Jenny, B., Jenny, H. and Räber, S. (2008). Map design for the Internet. In: M. P. Peterson (editor), International Perspectives on Maps and the Internet, Berlin Heidelberg New York: Springer, p. 31-48. PDF.
Jenny, B., Terribilini, A., Jenny, H., Gogu R., Hurni, L., and Dietrich, V., (2006). Modular Web-based Atlas Information Systems. Cartographica, 41-3, p. 247-256. PDF.
Jenny, B. (2005). Cisalpin - eine neue Kartenschrift. Kartographische Nachrichten, 1, p. 57-8. PDF.
Räber, S., and Jenny, B. (2003). Karten im Netz - ein Plädoyer für mediengerechte Kartengrafik. In: Hartmut Asche, Christian Hermann, Web.Mapping 2, Herbert Wichmann Verlag, Heidelberg, Germany, p. 57-76.
Jenny, B., Freimark, H. and Terribilini, A. (2002). Entwicklung eines kartographischen Internet-Mapservers. Proceedings of GISSIT 2002, Zurich, CD-ROM. PDF.
Räber, S., and Jenny, B. (2001). Attraktive Webkarten - ein Plädoyer für gute Kartengrafik, Proceedings of Web.Mapping.2001, Karlsruhe, Germany. PDF.