Abstract

Hazard and Crisis Map Symbology Design Practices by Humanitarian Organizations
Track: Disaster and Emergency Management
Authors: John Kostelnick

Numerous humanitarian organizations, NGOs, and governmental agencies around the world utilize map symbols for representing hazard/crisis events on GIS-based maps and visualizations. Yet, the development, utilization, and standardization of effective hazard/crisis symbology is wrought by several challenges, and new methodologies are needed to promote "best practices" for the design, standardization, and promulgation of hazard/crisis map symbology. This paper presents results from a web-based survey of hazard/crisis map symbol design and usage practices by humanitarian organizations from around the world. Key challenges in the development of hazard/crisis symbology by these organizations will be identified from the survey results, and potential strategies for overcoming key challenges will be proposed. Discussion will include the role of ESRI resources (e.g., Mapping Center, ArcGIS Online) for promoting hazard/crisis symbol sharing and standardization.