The "WebGIS" as a tool for territorial diagnostic and dialogue among territorial actors: what is the optimal format within a socio-ecological transition context?

Geographic information diffusion through WebGis services is well received by territorial actors working on socio-ecological transition due to its creation of new spaces for observations and collaborations. Moreover, the still rising internet utilisation and the development of open source software solutions have allow its multiplication and popularisation. However, beyond an accessible and proven technology are the issues of performance and even relevance of the service as an observation and dialogue tool among territorial actors. Indeed, too often these services do not meet the objectives fixed by the targeted users. Numerous problems occur within the conception and disclosure of information formerly kept solely by experts. Starting from a technological assessment and analysis of its use in four WebGis examples, this research attempts to identify the vectors ensuring a better connection between developers and users. Firstly, it aims to identify and understand the elements influencing the performance of a WebGis content and layout. The analysis tackles the link between the complexity level and its expected (or desired) utilisation by emphasising various geographical levels, data and indicators, visualisation and processing tools as well as the interface graphic and design. Secondly, this paper intends to provide insights regarding the interface optimisation within a socio-ecological transition context. Fundamental guidelines and certain conception rules for WebGis have been set out in order to ensure its relevance and usage