Schematic maps as wayfinding aids

Schematic maps are effective tools for representing information about the p hysical environment; they depict specific information in an abstract way. T his study concentrates on spatial aspects of the physical environment such as branching points and connecting roads, which play a paramount role in th e schematization of wayfinding maps. Representative classes of branching-po ints are identified and organized in a taxonomy. The use of prototypical br anching points and connecting road types is empirically evaluated in the sc hematization of maps. The role played by the different functions according to which the map is classified is assessed, and main strategies applied dur ing the schematization process are identified. Implications for navigationa l tasks are presented.