Towards standardized visualization – Design strategies for 3D-representation of combined invisible environmental and social aspects in complex infrastructure projects

Other conference contribution, 2025

The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) use object-oriented information models (coordination models in 3D) to visualize large and complex infrastructure projects. The requirements for how to visually represent objects in these models are however often vague. This leads to projects displaying the same type of data in different ways, usually due to the default settings in the consultant's software or the consultant's mindset. In addition, not all data related to environmental and social aspects are included as they are displayed in different systems, making the overall content of the model difficult to understand for users.

Through intuitive and accessible design, different target groups can better understand the complexity of project proposals and consequences of different planning alternatives. Using a unified design language can provide a basis for consensus among the users involved and will contribute to a better overall view, more efficient decision-making support, and easier quality assurance during the planning and construction process. This can contribute both to better collaboration and to the design and implementation of more sustainable solutions.
Urban development affects invisible parameters such as air and noise, which have an impact on both the environment and health. Since they are invisible such parameters can be difficult to comprehend. In this research project, a collaboration between Chalmers and Trafikverket, we study how best to integrate and combine different visualization solutions for the environmental domains of noise and air, and their link to social impacts. By developing methods to visualize multiple parameters simultaneously in 3D, we can create a more comprehensive picture of environmental conditions in a building project.

In this research project (MiljöVIS) a design based iterative approach has been applied, involving researchers, designers, programmers and users. The project includes 1) mapping of target groups and their needs, 2) identification of design solutions for the selected areas (air, noise and social consequences), 3) development of a fictitious sandbox model and a large-scale model based on real data as test beds, 4) development of design concepts (e.g. colour scales, geometry, scale and perspective) and 5) user testing through focus group discussions, workshops and interviews with identified target groups.

The project shows that there is a need for more standardized visualization concerning representation of data in 3D. Strategies and principles as a method for more uniformed visualization, customized to different needs, have therefore been formulated. Future requirements for representation of 3D-data will for example facilitate quality assurance, help finding clusters of goal conflicts, minimize uncertainties and risks. In conclusion, the project contributes knowledge on how visualization of invisible data can play an important role in raising awareness and understanding of the complexities of urban development.