Designing advanced GIS visualisations using cognitive ergonomics theories, models and procedures

Much useful and interesting information about the world contains aspects which draw their significance from the spatial distribution of phenomena. Since the earliest days of civilisation such information has been presented in the form of maps and diagrams. The manner of representation has changed exceedingly slowly until recent times. The ability to encode maps digitally has evolved into geographic information systems (GIS) with powerful analysis functionality and display capabilities. Traditional cartographic educational, decision-support and entertainment objectives can now be achieved via a multitude of interactive multimedia products. While this (technology led) revolution has greatly enhanced the potential to fulfil these objectives, it has not eliminated the basic question: what is a good map? Indeed the problem of design has become considerably more complex