This article presents an overview of a research project focusing on improving the usability of
pedestrian navigation systems by following a User-Centered Design (UCD) approach. One of the
main problems with those systems is how to adequately support and enhance the spatial
interactions of a traveler to new urban areas, which is crucial for successful self-orienting and
wayfinding. The methodology employed allows for conceptualizing, implementing and evaluating
research prototypes that aim to satisfy the special user requirements. Outlined in this article
are the techniques designed and integrated in the developed prototype, the methods used for
their evaluation through field-based studies and the challenges encountered during this process.
New techniques with a measurable impact on the effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction of
navigation were tested and found to dramatically enhance the sense of personal geo-identification
in new places. Examples of those techniques are landmark visibility indication, multi-path
routing based on time availability, multi-perspective landmark photos and reverse overview +
detail maps. Overall, the outcomes of this research verify the capacity of UCD to help overcoming
current usability issues with pedestrian navigation systems. By demonstrating an effective UCD
methodology and discussing the lessons learned, we intend to aid the development of next
generation navigation appliances.