Visualising Potential Coastal Change: Communicating Results Using Visualisation Techniques

A key challenge facing coastal management organisations is the need to effectively communicate the potential risks posed by coastal change and associated adaptation options, particularly if the potential for misunderstanding and conflict is to be avoided (e.g. in cases which are scientifically complex and involve many interested parties). GIS technology is appropriate and widely used by coastal planners and managers; however, its application in decision-making processes is often hampered by the highly technical output that they tend to produce. This can prove particularly difficult for members of the public to interpret. The dynamic, multidimensional and uncertain nature of the coastal zone presents particular challenges to those wishing to communicate possible future coastal change and management options.