Cartographic visualization and user interfaces in spatial decision support systems

Spatial decision support systems enable decision-makers to analyze complex locational problems. When such systems are used, problems often undergo reconceptualization as the effects of altering criteria and model specifications become known. Model results, however, must be placed in a geographical context for decisionmakers to understand key spatial relationships among components of their problem. Several distinct tasks typically must be accomplished during locational decision-making, and the interface presented to the user must adapt to different display requirements. Decision-makers also must be allowed to interactively visualize the effects of making adjustments to parameters in the solution space. We present a model of an interface that relies on the establishment of linkages between database entities and displays to support visualization requirements.