Wayfinding in Virtual Environments With Landmarks on Overview Maps

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to improve users’ positive experiences in wayfinding in virtual environments through empirical research on the influence of different designs of landmarks on overview maps. The experiment adopted a four (landmark) x two (gender) between-subjects design. Landmarks with symbols, symbols and images, symbols and text, and symbols, images and text were examined. Fifty-six participants were invited to complete three wayfinding tasks and fill out questionnaires. The generated results indicated that: (1) Landmark presentation styles significantly affect wayfinding performance on overview maps in virtual environments. (2) Concerning subjective rationality, system usability and perceived usefulness, the use of text in landmark design can significantly improve users’ evaluations of overview maps. (3) In terms of gender, females’ system usability evaluations and subjective intentions of using overview map with landmarks are significantly more positive than males’.