초록

Abstract

The purposes of this study are to evaluate the navigability of three web-based mapping applications and to suggest how to improve the navigability of all web-based mapping applications. With these purposes, this study conducted a web-based survey congruent with a think aloud and systematic observation for individual participants, followed up by a focus group with all participants. Based on the findings, recommendations are proposed for web-based mapping applications that include a standard click and drag panning function in mapping applications, a scaled zooming option, increased text for icons and buttons, and other potential changes to computer hardware for increased navigability in these applications. By improving the navigability of web-based mapping applications, the learning time may be reduced for each application and the speed at which users’ geographic information needs are met will be quicker.

초록

본 연구는 문헌정보학 분야에서 지리정보시스템을 어떻게 활용할 수 있는지에 대해 미국 플로리다주 Lake 카운티 도서관 이용자 정보를 이용하여 논의하였다. GIS의 다양한 기능 중에서 지오코딩, Thiessen 다각형, 밀집도, 버퍼, 이동거리의 측정 등의 툴들을 이용하여 도서관 이용자 정보를 분석하였다. 분석결과, 도서관 이용자의 위치나 분포형태에 대한 이해를 얻을 수 있었고 도서관 서비스 지역을 설정함으로써 도서관 서비스 계획수립을 위한 토대를 마련할 수 있었다. 또한 Thiessen 다각형이나 버퍼를 통해 이동거리가 도서관 이용에 미치는 영향을 분석함과 동시에 보다 현실적인 도서관 이용자의 이동거리를 측정하는 방법을 제시하였다.

Abstract

Using the library users' data in Lake County Public Library Systems, Florida, US, this study discussed how geographic information systems can be applied in LIS fields. These data were analyzed with such GIS functions as geocoding, Thiessen polygon, density, buffer, and distance measurement. Results indicate that findings from a study of these functions allowed for, not only a better understanding of the geographic locations of library users and user’s library activity patterns, but also for the ability to identify library market areas for future library service planning. Additionally, results from a study of the Thiesen polygon and buffer functions indicated the distance impact on library use. Regarding the travel distance of library users, the measurement of distance using road networks was suggested.