Lloyd – DIAGRAMMATIC METRO MAPS 2018

Description

Authored by Peter B. Lloyd of the University of Kent, this concise 3-page document, likely an extended abstract or conference paper from 2018, presents an insightful overview of ongoing doctoral research into diagrammatic metro map usability. Moving beyond traditional artisanal methods, the paper champions a systematic, evidence-based approach to identify and characterize navigational problems arising from ‘micro-design’ elements like colour coding and junction layouts. Its findings, underpinned by empirical studies involving 300 volunteers and the NYC subway map, are highly trustworthy and academically rigorous. Featuring a clear visual example (Figure 1) illustrating key concepts, this research is significant for professionals and academics in human-computer interaction, graphic design, and public transport information. It lays the groundwork for developing automated software tools capable of detecting and remediating design hazards in metro maps, ultimately enhancing user experience.