Raster and Vector Map Images

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to discover if there is a difference between user satisfaction with vector map images versus user satisfaction with raster map images. Many studies in the past have examined the advantages and disadvantages of vector versus raster images of continuous geographic data, but no one has previously looked at the effects that these images have on user satisfaction. The population sample was UNC School of Information and Library Science graduate students. Results show that for city, street, and building locations, UNC SILS graduate students have greater self-reported user satisfaction when viewing vector images on Google Maps. However, for topographic features such as mountains and lakes, students prefer raster format.