1.4.1. Levels of Interactivity

The map cube model

In the field of geo-visualisation, (MacEachren 1994) has presented a conceptual model (the map cube or (cartography)³ model) for categorising different types of maps along three dimensions. In describing the model he says:

"The fundamental idea is that map use can be conceptualized as a three-dimensional space. This space is defined by three continua: (1) from map use that is private (where an individual generates a map for his or her own needs) to public (where previously prepared maps are made available to a wider audience); (2) map use that is directed toward revealing unknowns (where the user may begin with only the general goal of looking for something "interesting") versus presenting knowns (where the user is attempting to access particular spatial information); and (3) map use that has high human-map interaction (where the user can manipulate the map(s) in substantive ways - such as effecting a change in a particular map being viewed, quickly switching among many available maps, superimposing maps, merging maps) versus low interaction (where the user has limited ability to change the presentation)." (MacEachren 1994, p. 6-7)

(MacEachren 1994)

In LBS the model has particular relevance when we think about the goals of interactivity. Highly interactive maps allow the user to pose questions about their surroundings. In maps with low interaction information is updated automatically in response changes in the user's context. We can place different types of LBS application in the model accordingly.