Making Sense of Maps

Explore the fascinating world of mental maps and their impact on urban navigation in this 17-minute TED talk by map designer Aris Venetikidis. Delve into the abstract, schematic-like representations we create in our minds as we navigate cities, and discover how these mental constructs differ from traditional street maps. Learn how understanding these cognitive maps can lead to the development of more effective real-world navigation tools. Follow Venetikidis as he applies these insights to redesign Dublin's notoriously complex bus map, demonstrating practical applications of cognitive mapping principles. Gain valuable insights into the intersection of psychology, design, and urban planning, and consider how these concepts can improve wayfinding and transportation systems in cities worldwide.

Aris Venetikidis: Making sense of maps