Techniques, challenges, and opportunities in mobile thematic map design for data journalism

Maps are increasingly read on mobile devices. Mobile maps necessitate specific design considerations to improve readability and user experience. Little research has focused on how to design mobile thematic maps, in contrast to reference maps. Data journalism represents a common way that the public encounters mobile thematic maps. This paper characterizes the design techniques and challenges associated with mobile thematic cartography in the context of data journalism. Through interviews with 18 expert news cartographers, I show that teams of data journalists are increasingly aware of mobile users, but face numerous constraints when designing for these users. They face time constraints, the need to design for both desktop and mobile, and must reach vast general audiences, meaning they often practice simultaneous design over mobile-first design. News cartographers have also reduced their use of interactivity, which reduces complexity related to designing for both desktop and mobile. This work shows that news cartographers solve mobile thematic map design challenges through iterative design processes that draw from years of expertise, not a strict set of guidelines. News cartographers currently design mobile thematic maps based on generalized best practices, but are uncertain what choices do and do not work for their readersMany news cartographers design maps simultaneously for desktop and mobile, rather than prioritizing one over the otherNews cartographers are decreasing their use of interactive maps, given that they expect news readers want to consume information as fast as possibleNews maps are produced under time constraints that can be limiting on creativity and novelty, and without time for user testing News cartographers currently design mobile thematic maps based on generalized best practices, but are uncertain what choices do and do not work for their readers Many news cartographers design maps simultaneously for desktop and mobile, rather than prioritizing one over the other News cartographers are decreasing their use of interactive maps, given that they expect news readers want to consume information as fast as possible News maps are produced under time constraints that can be limiting on creativity and novelty, and without time for user testing