Exploring Semi-Automatic Map Labeling
Fabian Klute, Guangping Li, Raphael Löffler, Martin Nöllenburg, Manuela Schmidt · 2019
Label placement in maps is a very challenging task that is critical for the overall map quality. Most previous work focused on designing and implementing fully automatic solutions, but the resulting visual and aesthetic quality has not reached the same level of sophistication that skilled human cartographers achieve. We investigate a different strategy that combines the strengths of humans and algorithms. In our proposed labeling method, first an initial labeling is computed that has many well-placed labels but is not claiming to be perfect. Instead it serves as a starting point for an expert user who can then interactively and locally modify the labeling where necessary. In an iterative human-in-the-loop process alternating between user modifications and local algorithmic updates and refinements the labeling can be tuned to the user's needs.