Influence of Map Design, Individual Differences, and Environmental Cues on Wayfinding Performance

Results showed that only cultural difference and signage significantly predicted decisionmaking accuracy, and cultural difference was a significant predictor of total time deviated from route.

Abstract

This exploratory study investigated the effects of map design, individual differences, and environmental cues on wayfinding performance in an outdoor recreational area. Six maps, with three contour representations and two color codes, were used to determine how map design influences wayfinding. Four individual differences: gender, experience in map usage (experience vs. novice), handedness, and cultural difference (local vs. international), were used to predict wayfinding performance. The study area consisted of a trail park with ten junctions, where three of the junctions had signs, as environmental cues to aid users. Multiple regression analyses and logistic regression analysis were performed to predict the total time of completion, time for decision-making, accuracy of decision-making, and total time deviated from route. Results showed that only cultural difference and signage significantly predicted decisionmaking accuracy, and cultural difference was a significant predictor of total time deviated from route. Design implications for use of cues and wayfinding are discussed. In addition, recommendations for maps, trail networks, and environmental design are provided.