A Usability Evaluation of Web Map Zoom and Pan Functions
http://www.ijdesign.org/ojs/index.php/IJDesign/article/view/31/11
  peer-reviewed

You, Manlai, Chun-wen Chen, Hantsai Liu and Hsuan Lin
International Journal of Design
2007

Abstract:

Due to limitations on screen size and resolution, the usability of web maps relies heavily on their interface design. The main goal of this research is to find better interface designs for web maps and to facilitate their usage by the public. The research consists of two stages of investigation: (a) a survey on the operation interfaces of popular web maps; and (b) a usability evaluation of simulated interfaces by measuring task performance and conducting subjective evaluations.