This paper reports on the theoretical and practical issues raised during the development and deployment of Frasan a mobile web app for An Iodhlann a small island archive. Frasan has been used as a motivating example in previous literature including issues of low-connectivity, deep accessibility, community engagement and projected table top interactions. A particularly unusual feature was the use of a mix of `proper’ maps, that is standard projections, and `improper’ maps, those designed to emphasise locality with a more artistic and interpretative form. The paper reports on the obvious success measures in terms of engagement with the app and physical footfall at An Iodhlann. However more critical were the changes of archival practice and community engagement with heritage, which have continued beyond the life of the app itself. The paper draws out lessons for future platforms for community heritage and mapping.
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Fig. 2. Main Frasan screens: (left) map view; (centre) list of resources; (right)
detailed view of archive item.
Fig. 3. Tiree maps: (i) left – Ordnance Survey mapping map view; (ii) top right –
tourist map; (iii) detailed view of archive item.
Fig. 4. Fragment of archive data in JSON, note fields for geocoding and scale.
Fig. 5. (left) Frasan launch at Tiree Tech Wave March 2013; (right) Digital Tiree
Leaflet (one side only).