New media and their application to the production of map products

The use of animations, multimedia, and computer graphics is now commonplace in the spatial sciences. Usually users are required only to have access to sophisticated and powerful computer equipment and peripherals to use effectively such contemporary offerings. The range of electronic displays used for spatial information visualization can be enlarged through the application of other available devices, from domestic televisions to Internet services, making it possible to access spatial information in ways and with equipment that is familiar. However, many users may be unable to comprehend the real information being displayed with these new tools due to a lack of ''ground truthing''. ''Ground truthing'' in this context refers to additional data and information that ensure that the user, especially the novice, appreciates that depicted phenomena are real and do occur at some actual location and at some point of time. ''Ground truthing'' of the depiction of spatial information may be achieved by linking electronic map displays to ''real'' locations through the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web. This paper gives an overview of the various types of products that could be developed for the delivery of spatial information in a different manner that complements the methods now in popular use, and proposes the use of projects on CD-ROM and the World Wide Web that could be linked to mapping displays to provide ''electronic ground truthing''. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.