Kirsis, Valdis I.

This thesis presents the development process for prototyping a mapping software program designed to meet several professional needs in natural resource management. The goals of this research project include: (1) development of mapping methodologies that will allow spatial data to be utilized as a planning and assessment device by local and state agencies, (2) creation of a mapping system that can be utilized by users with limited computer experience, (3) exploration of how the object-oriented programming approach of a hypermedia software development environment for the Macintosh computer called HyperCard (tm) can be used to simulate geographic information systems, and (4) encouragement of dialogue regarding how spatial data could be stored and manipulated for current problems in natural resource management. The first stage of the study involved a literature review of the hypermedia movement and theoretical design issues facing planning and education professionals wishing to create their own hypermedia materials for presenting tabular and spatial data. The second stage explored the strengths and weaknesses of creating a spatially-oriented mapping system using HyperCard (tm). Issues examined included:

(1) end user data needs,

(2) availability of spatial data and types of sources,

3) a detailed map overlay scheme,

(4) HyperCard (tm) software capabilities as a multimedia tool,

(5) map scale and projection methods,

(6) updating needs, and

(7) future system expansion possibilities.

The third stage illustrates a process for designing and creating a user-friendly prototype mapping system in HyperCard (tm) to demonstrate how spatial data in the form of maps and figures could be combined with tabular data.

An analysis of the development environment, design methods, architecture and operation of this prototype desktop information system (DIS) constitute the focus of this presentation. The utility of a map-based DIS, especially its use for spatial and data analysis and modeling are also discussed.

This research suggests that interactive systems be developed from the inside out, from the data model to the user, rather than the other way around. This view contrasts sharply with the philosophy that the user interface should be the dominant system component and thus standardized across programs. Perhaps hypermedia, with the structural richness it has to offer human-computer interaction, may eventually overshadow the reigning paradigm, the desktop interface.