Design Thinking Implementation in Tourism Map

Abstract

This study aims to describe the use of design thinking methods on the design of tourist maps. The lack of literature discussing the design thinking process in map design is also the reason this research.The use of design thinking in this study served to convey the character of the Semarang Chinatown in map design to help tourists, tour guides, as well as economic progress and strengthening the identity of the area. The characteristics of the Chinatown area include history, culture, commerce, business, culinary, and religion. The objectives to be achieved in this research are visual communication design solutions through design thinking in a specific and useful map design area through the process of applying design thinking. This study uses design thinking methods, which include empathy, definition, ideate, prototype, and test. The results of this study found that most visitors had difficulty finding street names. At the define stage, it found that several personal factors influence the design that can solve the problem at the empathy stage. At the ideate stage, it found that the most appropriate choice to represent the map was to use a 3D map model. At the prototype stage, it found that by using the technique of folding two folds parallel and doubling, this made it easy for maps to be stored and seen anywhere. In the testing phase, it found that the design of the tourist map helps tourists find the desired place and tour guide in showing and explaining historical and cultural locations and landmarks.

Comprehension of City Map Pictograms Designed for Specific Tourists’ Needs

“…In order to offer a practical solution to common issues faced by tourists in urban explorations, tourist maps should be both informative and user-friendly [11]. Previous research on map symbols [12] suggests a design methodology that incorporates feedback from various demographic groups to ensure the symbols are comprehensible and accessible to all.…”