Enhancing Accessibility of Thematic Web Maps for Visually Impaired Users

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Maps have long been invaluable tools for navigation and communication, yet their inherently visual nature poses challenges for people with visual impairments or disabilities. While tactile and acoustic maps address some barriers, the rise of digital and web-based maps has introduced new accessibility challenges. This paper reviews the accessibility of popular web mapping tools, proposes guidelines for the development of accessible thematic web maps, and demonstrates these concepts through the development of a prototype using point data of Austrian castles as a thematic layer. The study reveals that while the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a generic framework applicable to thematic web maps, additional domain-specific recommendations are necessary to address unique challenges. Accessibility features across web mapping tools vary widely, with some offering built-in support and others requiring developers to implement accessibility measures. This work contributes to advancing inclusivity in web cartography, fostering equal access to spatial information for users with visual disabilities.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)107 - 121
Number of pages15
JournalKN - Journal of cartography and geographic information : an official journal of DGfK, SGK and ÖKK
Volume75
Issue number2
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 105006571425
ORCID /0000-0003-2949-4887/work/211001154

Keywords

Keywords

  • Web mapping, Web accessibility, Web map accessibility, WCAG, Thematic maps