Case Study
Interactive Mapping Application
A detailed, filterable map of the Erie Canal showing points of interest such as boat launches, picnic areas and regional attractions.
"From day one, Web Instinct was committed to building a really great website for us. We are especially pleased with the interactive maps they created and with the attention they gave to ensuring an excellent user experience."
Jean Mackay, Executive Director, Erie Canalway
Highlights
The system leverages the most popular mapping software out there to provide a comfortable and familiar interface.
Various types of elements - from picnic areas to boat launches - can be easily identified and quickly filtered.
The map clearly shows areas such as the canal, trails and lakes using integrated KML files - all adjustable by the client.
Clicking on a map icon displays a sidebar window with immersive and detailed information on that point of interest.
All data on the map - from each point of interest to the KML layers - can be managed and edited through a custom dashboard without the need for developer intervention.
Challenge.
The Erie Canalway exists to promote tourism to the Erie Canal and its immediate surrounding areas. To that end, they wanted to provide an easy to use online map of that region highlighting practical details such as boat launches, picnic areas and nearby parks and places of interest.
Most online maps of this sort are more practical than enjoyable. The information may exist on the site, but it can be difficult to find and parse. Using these types of maps to generate a solid itinerary can be complex, if it's possible at all. Even the best maps will be abandoned if they are not easy to use.
The goal was to generate the go-to resource for those looking to visit the area, and provide an easy to use, enjoyable experience to travellers, providing them the important information they needed to plan a successful journey.
Solved.
Our team focused first on the design and UX (user experience) of the site. With a focus on usability, we generated a mapping application that lays out its pertinent information in a visually appealing way. Sidebars were utilized to provide easy filtering which allows the map to display exactly the data the traveller is looking for.
Points of interest can be expanded on with a simple click, opening a "window" that reveals rich detail about that location, including photos of the area.
A custom dashboard was provided to allow staff to add, edit and remove points on the map as they wish without requiring the services of a web developer each time. Even KML and KMZ layers can be added and arranged as needed.