Haverkort – METAPHORICAL METRO MAPS 2022

Description

Herman Haverkort analyzes “metaphorical metro maps,” which reuse transit-map visual language to depict non-transport networks, and proposes a framework to assess use cases, design, and algorithmic challenges. He explains why metro metaphors are powerful (familiar iconography, clear routes, color-coded lines) but warns they can mislead when target domains differ from transit systems. Haverkort formalizes metro networks (station- vs link-based, routes, line changes, distance/ connectivity properties), lists common map purposes (overview, coordination, exploration, decision support, learning, credibility), and offers checklist questions linking content, purpose, and audience. Applying the framework to examples—road maps, timelines, project schedules, biochemical pathways, genre/sector sets—he highlights recurring issues: fuzzy station membership, nonsensical interchanges, directed cycles, variable link importance, arbitrary spatial/line ordering, and one-dimensional locations like time. Set-system maps add ordering and crossing problems and cognitive biases. He identifies algorithmic/design tasks (preserve true shortest paths, reduce misleading parallels/crossings, highlight critical routes) and gives practical guidance and research directions for construction, layout algorithms, and user studies.