A SoftGIS Revision: Towards Digitally Mediated Locative Dialogue in Support of Urban Planning

Abstract

This thesis presents an iterative design process beginning from assessment of an existing online map-based interface. The process draws from co-design concepts to determine interactions that could compliment current use of the online interface. Inspiration also comes from ethnographic practices and previous research that merges topics of technology and ethnography. The resulting interface proposal extends use of the existing interface beyond information gathering to support ongoing communication. This is accomplished through a two-fold strategy incorporating both revision to the visual design of the interface and recommendations for complimentary interactions in mobile, real-world contexts.