An object-oriented approach to maps

The use of location-based applications has increased among common users and field agencies. Geographical information systems have benefitted organizations of all sizes and almost every industry. Studies have indicated that the user\u27s spatial ability plays an important role in how the users interact with the software. Investigators have found that spatial ability is composed of five components such as visualization, speeded rotation, closure speed, closure flexibility and perceptual speed. In order to scientifically study individual differences in spatial ability, various visualizations and views of a geographic area that closely resembles user\u27s perception needs to be developed. Object-oriented approach of maps provides a self-contained representation of the features in a geographical region. With the help of such a representation, various usability features and visualizations can be developed to study individual differences in spatial ability. This thesis describes an object-oriented approach to representing maps and building maps software on top of that. It describes the data model, the development of the maps software and the pilot conducted to evaluate usability features developed