Time-aware consideration towards the intelligent GIS User interface design

Abstract The effectiveness of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) relies heavily on the integration of heterogeneous datasets to represent dynamic real-world phenomena. Each dataset is inherently temporal, capturing a snapshot of geographic features at a specific moment in time. Despite this, conventional GIS user interfaces often lack mechanisms to appropriately incorporate temporal information, which may hinder accurate interpretation and decision-making. To address this limitation, this study introduces a framework based on the concept of valid time, incorporating standardized temporal attributes and an intersection-based approach to determine valid time ranges across multiple datasets. Building upon the VISA intelligent interface, this study proposes an enhanced VISTA interface that integrates a theme-based temporal ruler, allowing users to better comprehend and navigate temporal ranges of analysis results. The interface employs a refined valid-time slider to dynamically update displayed information as datasets are added or removed. Findings demonstrate that time-aware interface design not only improves the accuracy of GIS operations but also facilitates informed decision-making by enabling users to interpret outcomes with temporal clarity. This research highlights the necessity of embedding temporal considerations into intelligent GIS interfaces and provides design strategies that can guide future GIS applications toward improved transparency, usability, and analytical robustness.