94 research outputs found

    Reading the Factors Affecting the Wayfinding Behavior of Urban Tourists Using Meta-Synthesis

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    The use of urban routes by tourists is an integral part of tourism in urban spaces, and tourists use urban routes to reach their desired destinations. Confusion in wayfinding causes unpleasant feelings and facilitates wayfinding, providing tourist satisfaction and repeat visits. Despite importance of issues related to tourists' behavior in urban spaces, there is a lack of research that examines all factors affecting tourists' wayfinding behavior in tourist cities and provides a comprehensive understanding of wayfinding of tourism. Therefore, current research has its main mission and goal in contributing to body of knowledge in field of studies of tourists' wayfinding behavior and identifying all factors affecting this behavior in urban space for fill this research gap and planning and designing an efficient wayfinding system, according to the tourists' wayfinding behavior. This research is fundamental in terms of its purpose and seeks to answer the question, what are factors affecting wayfinding behavior of urban tourists? To answer research question, meta-synthesis method and seven-step model of Sandelowski and Barroso (2007) have been used. The target texts were coded in Maxqda 10. According to obtained results, tourism wayfinding is a complex activity due to limited familiarity of tourists with environment and different perception and depends on many factors. Facilitating tourist wayfinding requires attention to 5 main categories of travel factors, tourist characteristics, perceptual factors, environmental factors and guide tools. Findings of this research can be used to understand wayfinding behavior of tourists and improve wayfinding environment and travel experience and satisfaction of tourists

    A systematic review of factors influencing signage salience in indoor environments

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    Wayfinding signage is an intermediary public facility that coordinates the relationship between space and people, and it is crucial to help people find their way in complex indoor environments. In people’s cognitive behaviour towards wayfinding signs, the visual salience of the signs is the prerequisite and key to ensuring their effective operation. This paper aims to review published research articles on the effect of indoor environments on the saliency of wayfinding signs. The literature review was conducted by PICO methodology to formulate the research question and develop search strategies. Relevant research articles were identified by systematically searching electronic databases, including Web of Science, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and EBSCO. This paper summarises two categories of factors influencing signage salience: (1) floor plan factors and (2) environmental factors. This study examined and condensed the attributes of wayfinding signage and their impact on how pedestrians perceive visuals while navigating. Exploring the elements that influence the visual prominence of indoor signs enhances our comprehension of how pedestrians engage with visually guided information indoors. Furthermore, this offers a theoretical foundation for the realm of indoor wayfinding

    Human experience in the natural and built environment : implications for research policy and practice

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    22nd IAPS conference. Edited book of abstracts. 427 pp. University of Strathclyde, Sheffield and West of Scotland Publication. ISBN: 978-0-94-764988-3

    Visual communications of transportation system: Using information design to strengthen the legibility of transit maps

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    This thesis developed design solutions to enhance the legibility of transit maps by using information design knowledge. The author followed a user-centred approach to observe participants' reading behaviour and provide design solutions that meet user needs and expectations. In this study, the transit map is re-defined as an information design material rather than a cartographic map or a computerised diagram. The transit map design is divided into three main topics: information communication, visual design, and user performance. China's high-speed railway map is used as a case study where user performance tests are conducted to ascertain whether re-designing the map according to information design principles improves the map's legibility and makes it more user-friendly. The main focus is on information communication effectiveness, including map legend and instructional systems on the map; and on the visual design elements, including colour system, transit line layout, transfer signs and typography, etc. Finally, design guidance is established for transit maps based on the literature review and on the research findings of this study. This guidance is aimed at providing designers and researchers with both theoretical and practical design suggestions. Several research methods are included in this research study. Literature was reviewed to establish the theoretical basis for the empirical tests and relevant evaluation standards. Eye-tracking testing helped identify the map's strengths and potential design limitations in terms of information communication and visual design. It also assisted in observing users' reading strategies and habits based on the eye-movement data. The user performance tests helped evaluate the legibility of the existing map and the revised maps in terms of reading speed, information searching accuracy and route planning quality. The interviews and questionnaires helped collect users' opinions and suggestions, which reinforced the analysis of the experimental results. The results indicate that information design plays a vital role in transit map design in many aspects. The information communication quality of the map legend can largely affect the legibility of transit maps; users showed a faster reading speed and better information searching accuracy after the necessary instructions were visualised. The colour system showed its unreplaceable advantage in transit map visual design, especially in distinguishing and grouping different categories of travel information and map functions, such as different transit lines, services and icons, etc. In addition, a new colour-coding mode for transit lines that combines both qualitative and sequential schemes was created. Its effectiveness was then tested through usability testing. Users' reading speed and comfort were improved after the colour system was re-coded based on the new standard. This research also breaks Beck style (45°octolinear layout) in transit line schematical layout, widely recognised as "golden standard". The test results show that 60° octolinear layout could be the most suitable layout for the North-south direction middle-complex network. Moreover, the study shows that the visual design of micro visual elements (e.g., interchange icons, station labels) should always assist the information communication of the macro transit line layout. The test results would not be applicable to real-life contexts if the design of individual elements was investigated separately from the whole information design structure. The empirical research findings from this study are an essential contribution and a good demonstration that information design is of great importance to cartographic design. The study demonstrates a successful example that evaluated, improved and tested the legibility of a transit map by using existing information design principles and theories. The principles that then also emerge from this study are a strong contribution to knowledge in the field of information design and will provide valuable insight to researchers and designers. In addition, the methodologies used in the research can also support information design research beyond map design, such as information reading materials that contain various categories of instructions and data

    Hierarchical Graphs as Organisational Principle and Spatial Model Applied to Pedestrian Indoor Navigation

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    In this thesis, hierarchical graphs are investigated from two different angles – as a general modelling principle for (geo)spatial networks and as a practical means to enhance navigation in buildings. The topics addressed are of interest from a multi-disciplinary point of view, ranging from Computer Science in general over Artificial Intelligence and Computational Geometry in particular to other fields such as Geographic Information Science. Some hierarchical graph models have been previously proposed by the research community, e.g. to cope with the massive size of road networks, or as a conceptual model for human wayfinding. However, there has not yet been a comprehensive, systematic approach for modelling spatial networks with hierarchical graphs. One particular problem is the gap between conceptual models and models which can be readily used in practice. Geospatial data is commonly modelled - if at all - only as a flat graph. Therefore, from a practical point of view, it is important to address the automatic construction of a graph hierarchy based on the predominant data models. The work presented deals with this problem: an automated method for construction is introduced and explained. A particular contribution of my thesis is the proposition to use hierarchical graphs as the basis for an extensible, flexible architecture for modelling various (geo)spatial networks. The proposed approach complements classical graph models very well in the sense that their expressiveness is extended: various graphs originating from different sources can be integrated into a comprehensive, multi-level model. This more sophisticated kind of architecture allows for extending navigation services beyond the borders of one single spatial network to a collection of heterogeneous networks, thus establishing a meta-navigation service. Another point of discussion is the impact of the hierarchy and distribution on graph algorithms. They have to be adapted to properly operate on multi-level hierarchies. By investigating indoor navigation problems in particular, the guiding principles are demonstrated for modelling networks at multiple levels of detail. Complex environments like large public buildings are ideally suited to demonstrate the versatile use of hierarchical graphs and thus to highlight the benefits of the hierarchical approach. Starting from a collection of floor plans, I have developed a systematic method for constructing a multi-level graph hierarchy. The nature of indoor environments, especially their inherent diversity, poses an additional challenge: among others, one must deal with complex, irregular, and/or three-dimensional features. The proposed method is also motivated by practical considerations, such as not only finding shortest/fastest paths across rooms and floors, but also by providing descriptions for these paths which are easily understood by people. Beyond this, two novel aspects of using a hierarchy are discussed: one as an informed heuristic exploiting the specific characteristics of indoor environments in order to enhance classical, general-purpose graph search techniques. At the same time, as a convenient by- product of this method, clusters such as sections and wings can be detected. The other reason is to better deal with irregular, complex-shaped regions in a way that instructions can also be provided for these spaces. Previous approaches have not considered this problem. In summary, the main results of this work are: • hierarchical graphs are introduced as a general spatial data infrastructure. In particular, this architecture allows us to integrate different spatial networks originating from different sources. A small but useful set of operations is proposed for integrating these networks. In order to work in a hierarchical model, classical graph algorithms are generalised. This finding also has implications on the possible integration of separate navigation services and systems; • a novel set of core data structures and algorithms have been devised for modelling indoor environments. They cater to the unique characteristics of these environments and can be specifically used to provide enhanced navigation in buildings. Tested on models of several real buildings from our university, some preliminary but promising results were gained from a prototypical implementation and its application on the models

    The cartographic design and usability of whole-network bus maps

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    This study represents an investigation into understanding the variation in bus map design and the impact of map design preferences in public transportation information portrayal. In many cities, bus services represent a vital facet of easing traffic congestion and reducing pollution. However, with the entrenched car culture in many countries, including Malaysia, the country targeted here, persuading people to change their mode of transport is a significant challenge. To promote this modal shift, people need to know what services are available and where (and when) they go. Bus service maps provide an invaluable element of providing suitable public transport information, but are often overlooked by transport planners, and are under-researched by cartographers. Although bus services are ubiquitous, much more attention has been devoted to metropolitan rail network maps (e.g. Ovenden 2003 & 2015, Roberts, 2012). The earlier part of this study focuses on identifying the cartographic considerations when designing a bus map in a specific context. There are various approaches to the design of bus maps. It is a challenge for the authorities to understand which designs are preferred by the public and which perform best in conveying the required information. Even a quick look at a small sample of bus maps will show that there can be a significant variation in approach. This can vary from whole-network maps to single routes, and from geographically accurate maps to highly schematised representations. To advance the study and understand the cartographic styles of bus maps, it is necessary to develop a robust classification system that considers the critical factors in their design. The method employed was to examine a wide range of bus map examples from around the world, supplemented by considerations of other map classification systems and personal understanding of available options. The resulting classification is multi-faceted, but there are some apparent top-level differences in approach. One main distinction is between Geographical Approach maps and Schematic maps. While schematic maps are extensively used for metro systems, there are quite different considerations for bus maps and while some level of schematisation may be useful, highly schematic bus maps often present difficulties in everyday use. While the earlier research phases identified the significant options in bus map design, to inform design choices, it is also essential to consider what users prefer and best promotes successful use. To help provide guidance, a map usability study was conducted during which bus users and potential bus users had to solve several journey planning tasks using two different designs of whole-network bus maps. The two different designs are the Geographical Approach bus map design and the Semi-schematised bus map design. The distinguishing aspect of these two bus maps is only in their overall map design approach. Both maps have an identical bus route and bus information detail together with the same cartographic representation in terms of classification, symbolisation and typography. While many of the findings have general relevance to all bus map use situations, the usability testing was carried out in Malaysia to ensure the findings were relevant to promoting bus use in that country. 100 respondents were involved in the map usability test. Cultural differences can be a factor in influencing map use performance and design preferences. The outcomes of the usability study were analysed statistically, starting with descriptive statistical analysis of all possible influencing factors of map preferences (independent variable data) like age, gender, travel habits, driving license availability, among others. These data were then cross-analysed with the findings from the map usability test, ranging from the respondent performance based on the correctness of an answer to their opinions about the maps. The analysis includes the ease of use while using the map, the confidence level in using the map and their map design preference. The results show that the respondents prefer to use the Semi-schematised bus map design rather than the Geographical Approach bus map design. Their map preference’s selection is well explained by their performance in the journey-planning tasks and subsequent answers to the questionnaire. The Semi-schematic design had a higher degree of task correctness than when using the Geographical Approach design. This degree of correctness that favours semi-schematic design shows the same pattern across all genders, ages, and travel habits, and is decisively supported by the confidence level ratings and ease of map use ratings. Interestingly, respondents across all age groups say they would be willing to make greater use of public transport if there were more of these kinds of maps available. In conclusion, this research has brought much-needed insight into the public transport information provision of Malaysia’s public transport systems. There has been lack of research in this field in Malaysia, and the findings from this study have highlighted the benefit of using the right cartographic technique to enhance public transport information provision and improve the use of the public transport system as a whole. Apart from the continuous improvement in physical aspects of public transport systems, a well-designed public transport map that balances the efficient cartographic technique with local cultural preferences. All these measures certainly can help authorities and public transport providers in encouraging the modal shift from the regular use of private cars to more frequent use of public transport systems

    Comparative assessment of effectiveness of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems of Johannesburg and Tshwane

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    Abstract: Transport remains connected to our indigenous habitat, wellbeing and monetary thriving which rely upon good transport frameworks that provides effectiveness, comfort, fairness as well as affordability. Public transport is often framed as key component of building sustainable cities. Nonetheless, present estimations recommend that transport development is unjustifiable. Transport intimidates the social, economic, and our environmental future. Modifying as well as overseeing patterns of transport shows a critical issue which necessitates collaboration from participants at all governmental spheres. The study presents the critical review of literature of the relationship between public transport and sustainability with the purpose to comparatively assess the effectiveness of BRT systems of Johannesburg and Tshwane metropolitan cities. The study identifies the impacts, status quo, and benefits of this bus system, as well as its integration to other modes of transport. The study contributes to transport domain by identifying the key problems associated with sustainability of transport based on the perceptions and discussions of significant literature on transport. The attention is on connection amongst sustainable transport division and the sustainable development within South African setting...M.Ing. (Sustainable Urban Planning and Development

    Establishing the evaluation framework of Underground Public Space Quality Assessment (UPSQA)

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    Evaluating and improving the quality of Underground Public Space has become more significant for urban public realm utilisation, particularly in high density built urban areas. There is a necessity for a more scientific systematic evaluation approach to assess the quality of underground public places based on users' experience. Current literature shows that assessment criteria for traditional surface public places have a major impact on underground spatial design. However, an integrated research approach to debating the fundamental elements and key factors of underground public space is needed. Hence, this thesis aims to explore the key theories and practical cases to develop a matrix of qualitative assessment criteria for underground public places through a new research approach. 4 categories, 10 attributes, 46 indicators have been identified by SPSS Amos. Firstly, the fundamental philosophical hypothesis is proposed, including discussions on underground public space quality assessment methods. Secondly, the definition and advantages of mixed method design have been investigated. Thirdly, the rationality of the case study is summarised as a preferred method in this research. Finally, a pilot study is conducted on Beijing Yonganli Metro Station to verify the feasibility of the research method and adjust the study design for the proposed case study. Besides, specific assessment frameworks obtained by different methods have been compared and analysed side by side. This is also one of the analysis strategies adopted for the present study. In this research, Explore EFA (Exploratory Factor Analysis) and CFA (Confirmatory Factor Analysis) were used to rank and weight the indicators of the underground public space quality assessment system framework through literature review, professional interviews and three questionnaires. The analysis results of Chapter 5 to evaluate and score the design quality of underground public space around Guomao Station in the CBD area of Beijing have also been used. The author obtained three different results through three methods, and analysed and discussed the case results evaluated through the existing assessment criteria system. The research summarised a set of indicators of the quality evaluation system for the underground public space constructed and proposed the underground public space quality evaluation framework by analysing the design elements that affect underground space quality. Finally, the underground public space quality evaluation system has been applied and verified by taking the underground public space in Beijing's CBD area as an example. The final assessment results of the case indicated that people generally believe that high-quality places still have room for updates and improvements in the evaluation framework
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