New online campus map leads the way with interactive features

By Sam Fran Scavuzzo
Collegian Editor
February 14, 2007

Ever have your mother complain she can’t find your dorm on the old campus map? With the new online map created by University Communications, this confusion is a thing of the past.

“We realized the downloadable .pdf map we used to have was not cutting it anymore,” Senior Graphic Designer Matthew Chverchko said. “We wanted to show we had more to offer.”

Inspiration for the updated map came from a variety of sources. University Communications viewed many other campus maps, according to Chverchko.

“Our map is as interactive and accessible as any other school’s out there,” Chverchko said.

Posted to the University’s Web site last week, the new campus map operates using a Macromedia flash player. When navigating the main page of the site, roll over “The University” tab to access the map.

While loading the image, the system automatically chooses between three screen resolutions that the operating monitor can display. Those, coupled with an intricate map, cause a noticeable wait in the process.

“The one downside is that it takes a little time to load,” Chverchko said. “We hope students will be patient.”

Features of the map include a pull-down search menu that allows users to search by building or department/facility. Users can click on an item for further information and a detailed digital image. Also, a feature allows them to view the image on the large-scale map with a red arrow above it, to indicate its exact location on campus.

“When people click on buildings, we wanted users to see what they look like,” Chverchko said. “If you look at College Hall, it will look like College Hall.”

On older maps, students may remember a strange color-coded system that did not accurately reflect the nature of the building.

Also, the map now depicts shuttle stops and SEPTA bus stops, as well as the location of emergency call boxes. The SEPTA subway stop on Broad and Olney is not included.

Additionally, users may zoom, move and print the map simply by using the navigation bar in the lower section.

Another drawback to the new map is the inability to zoom out after zooming in.

“A zoom out feature currently does not exist, but a restart button does,” Chverchko said. “A more flexible zoom will probably be included in the next update.”

However, this update might not happen until next year.

The map’s funding, although not an expense University Communications usually prepares for, came out of its normal budget, according to Chverchko.

scavuzzos1@lasalle.edu