The Effectiveness of Map Design in Graphic Design

The presence of effective maps as part of a navigation system is crucial, as it depends on studying how users interact with the environment through location recognition and spatial knowledge. In the world of the internet, the use of location-based applications and maps has become vital, as these applications provide users with the ability to access any location. User experience in these applications has become a fundamental element in many fields. The research discusses, first, the concept of the map, the concept of cartography, geographic visualization, and informational design, as well as the importance of maps, map components, the significance of clarity in maps, factors influencing map design, and how maps are presented in terms of information displayed, visual gradation, and the standards related to the cognitive aspects of wayfinding maps. These aspects include principles for grouping various visual elements on a wayfinding map. This is clarified through the following: the structural relationships between elements according to Gestalt theories, such as common fate, continuity, figure and ground, proximity, similarity, space, and symmetry. The research then addresses the use of symbols in wayfinding maps.Secondly, the research delves into the interactive aspect, which is divided into interactive maps. The key features of interactive maps, the components of interactive map layers—such as the base map layer, landmark layer, and control elements layer—are discussed. The principles of designing interactive maps are categorized into contrast, consistency, readability, lines and arrows, colors, typography, icons, and hierarchy. Finally, the research explores the user experience.It refers to the set of emotions, behaviors, and actions that are generated in the user as a result of interacting with the system. This includes websites, mobile applications, desktop software, or any form of interaction between the user and the device.

Factors Influencing the Enhancement of User Experience:User experience is one of the key aspects to ensure the quality of an application in the first place. In addition to handling the main tasks for which the application was originally created, the application must also be accessible and easy to use. The less effort the application requires from users to interact with it, the better the experience will be.