Cartographic Visualisation of the Territorial Attractiveness

Abstract

The concept of attractiveness of an area (Servillo et al. 2012; Lysgård & Cruickshank, 2013) is critical in assessing thepotential and appeal of geographical areas for particular target groups. The concept of attractiveness is expressed by abroad spectrum of sub-characteristics, including attributes, parameters and factors that define the potential of an area interms of a particular theme. Attractiveness is fundamentally seen as a balance between supply and demand dynamics(Formica & Uysal, 2006). On the one hand, the supply aspect of attractiveness is embodied by the unique set ofcharacteristics inherent in a given territory (Figure 1). These characteristics, which can range from natural resources andgeographical location to infrastructure and cultural heritage, contribute to the attractiveness of an area. On the otherhand, the demand side of attractiveness is shaped by the specific needs, preferences and requirements of the intendedtarget group (Figure 1). The perspective of this group influences data selection, data classification, input data weightingchoices, evaluation methodologies, and how findings are communicated and presented, including maps and othercartographic products.