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ADA and Non-ADA Cartographic Configurations for the Same Layer

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a week ago
Status: Open
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DanMakridakis
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Occasional Contributor

Idea Summary:

The core idea is to enable independent cartographic configuration of ADA compliant and non-ADA compliant versions of map layers within ArcGIS Pro (and hosted feature layers). This capability would allow users to create and manage two distinct versions of each map layer—one that meets ADA standards and another that is optimized for users who do not require accommodations. When published, the map service would include the configurations of both versions within a single service definition.

With this feature, users can configure layers' symbology and labeling to be optimized for both ADA compliance and general use. This eliminates the need to make compromises to find a middle ground, ensuring that each version meets its intended audience's needs perfectly. Additionally, this dual configuration capability would also benefit the creation of static maps, ensuring that printed or offline maps are accessible to all users.

By implementing these features, ArcGIS Pro can:

  • Improve Accessibility: Ensures that maps are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, by providing a version specifically designed to meet ADA requirements.
  • Increase Time Efficiency: Reduces the time and effort required to balance cartographic appeal and accessibility by allowing independent configurations and real-time compliance feedback.
  • Enhance Ease of Use: Simplifies the process of creating and managing ADA compliant maps, alleviating the stress on publishers to find a middle ground.
  • Boost User Experience: Enhances the user experience by providing a seamless switch between ADA compliant and non-ADA versions, ensuring all users have access to visually appealing and functionally comprehensive maps.

Detailed Description:

The proposal includes the following key features:

  1. Dual Configuration of Map Services:

    • Introduce a feature similar to "Alt Text" for images, allowing the configuration of two versions of map services: Non-ADA and ADA Compliant.
    • The service definition would store both versions for each layer, ensuring that both symbology and labeling are appropriately managed.

  2. ADA Toggle Switch in ArcGIS Online (AGOL) Apps:

    • Add an ADA toggle switch to various AGOL applications (e.g., Map Viewer, Experience Builder, Field Maps).
    • This switch would allow users to choose between the Non-ADA and ADA Compliant versions, displaying the appropriate part of the service definition based on the selection.
    • Map Viewer would also provide an option to select from a list of ADA compliant basemaps when the ADA toggle is activated.
    • Similar functionality would be added to hosted feature layers to ensure that maps function seamlessly regardless of the types of services used.

  3. Enhanced ADA Compliance Tools in ArcGIS Pro:

    • Introduce a toggle switch in ArcGIS Pro to flip between the two versions of map services.
    • Implement an ADA editor that highlights and suggests necessary changes to the standard version to achieve ADA compliance.
    • Provide configurable settings to auto-increase label sizes and alter certain colors by default to meet ADA standards.

  4. Potential Additional ArcGIS Pro Enhancements:

    • ADA Compliance Guidelines and Templates: Offer built-in guidelines and templates for creating ADA compliant maps, providing predefined symbology, labeling styles, and layout options.
    • Real-Time ADA Compliance Checker: Implement a real-time compliance checker that evaluates the map as changes are made, providing instant feedback and suggestions for adjustments.
    • Enhanced Metadata for Accessibility: Allow additional metadata fields within the service definition to document accessibility features and compliance levels.

Conclusion:

By implementing these features, ArcGIS Pro can significantly improve the process of creating ADA compliant map services, making it easier for publishers to produce maps that are both accessible and aesthetically pleasing. This enhancement will foster inclusivity and ensure that geographic information is available to all users, regardless of their abilities.