Mapping Access: People and Place

A Google map with icons for parking and transport - Google is mapping access.Creating access maps using data collected from individuals is part of a Google Maps project. But there is more to this than just knowing how to get from one place to another when you are a wheelchair user. What does it say about architecture and how we value citizens? Codes for architectural compliance do not include the human perspective of how people actually use places and spaces and relate to each other. Mapping access is important for people and place.

Google has updated this information on a blog page which tells you how to find the accessible places on Google Maps. 

The City of Sydney accessibility map has different filters such as toilets, car parks, lifts and mobility parking. The top left hand navigation pane is not clear but clicking on icons should bring up desired results. 

Example of a step-free transport map

Bottom right hand corner of the tube map showing the legend of all the different level of accessThis isn’t something from Transport for London, it’s from a blog site, Step Free London. It shows what can be done with transport maps when users know that attention to detail is everything. The personal experience sets it apart from other maps. An access icon can mean so many things, and this is shown in the legend of the map. For example it could be either: Full step-free access; Step-free access via ramp; Step-free access towards one direction; Out-of-station interchange; and Separate entrance for each direction, plus other combinations of partial access.

The blog site has good information for map designers. It also contains all the latest information about travelling by train in London.

Accessibility Toolbar