Comparison of Map Visualization Techniques Used for Spatial and Spatio-Temporal Data: An Analytical Survey Applied to COVID-19 Data

Abstract

Currently, there are numerous techniques that are either in use or proposed for use for spatial and spatio-temporal visualization of data. Visualization techniques are commonly used in various areas including errands of daily life, weather, medical care, economics, social media, politics, and science, among many others. We have previously demonstrated the application of several tools and spatial data visualization techniques to visualize and analyze COVID-19 data. In this study, we aim to investigate the frequency of encounter and the extent and type of use of six data visualization techniques, namely: Choropleth maps, Heat maps, Hexagonal binning, Dot maps, Bubble maps, and Cartogram maps, using a survey of popular techniques.