Stellenbosch University’s new interactive campus map can be found online. PHOTO: Michael Brown.
Stellenbosch University (SU) released its first interactive campus map that can be used to search and navigate campus facilities.
The launch of the SU’s interactive map was communicated through university media platforms on 30 April.
The idea of an interactive campus map at SU was first discussed in March 2019, according to Jermaine Hendricks, senior geographic information specialist (GIS) at SU.
It was released for testing during the annual open day on 29 February, said Hendricks.
A previous version of a campus map can be found on the left while the new interactive map can be identified on the right. PHOTO: Jenna Lemmer.
“The SU campus map is a digital revolution, which will benefit not only its students but also its local community,” Hendricks said. SU’s interactive map will also benefit prospective students, he said.
According to Hendricks, some of the map’s key features include a scale bar, a tool panel, and a map navigator. The map also has a search icon that can be used to find specific points of interest around all four university campuses, he said.
Although the map has just been released, it has the potential to transcend and evolve, according to Hendricks.
“This is only the beginning, and there are still many ideas to make the map more effective and consumer-friendly,” said Francois Swart, director of development and planning at SU’s Facilities Management.
Stellenbosch University students use a variety of different transport methods to find their way around large areas of campus. PHOTO: Michael Brown.
According to Stacey Muzanya, a prospective SU student, she would use the map during her first weeks as a new student.
“It’s nice to be able to locate any university facility with just a few clicks. I think it would really help reduce freshman anxiety,” said Muzanya.
Muzanya believes that the map could be further improved if it was integrated, along with shuttle timetables, into an app.