Rethinking UX in 3D Cadastral Systems for Inclusive Land Governance

Resumen

This article examines how User Experience (UX) is conceptualized and evaluated in the context of 3D cadastral systems, and advocates for a more holistic and inclusive approach to their design. Although 3D cadastres are often promoted as more accessible and engaging for non-expert users, little attention has been paid to how users - whatever their level of expertise - actually experience and interact with these systems. Our literature review reveals that UX is frequently reduced to usability, overlooking non-instrumental dimensions such as aesthetics, symbolism, and user motivations, factors that are essential to inclusive land governance. Moreover, evaluations of 3D cadastral prototypes rarely involve non-expert participants, and interdisciplinary collaborations remain sparse. To bridge these gaps, we propose reframing UX in 3D cadastres around three pillars: the integration of broader experience dimensions, the inclusion of diverse user groups through participatory methods, and the promotion of interdisciplinary design practices. We argue that institutions like the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) could play a pivotal role in this transformation by promoting cross-disciplinary dialogue and supporting structured citizen engagement in cadastral research and development. Reimagining UX in this way can not only improve system performance and adoption but also enhance the social legitimacy and accessibility of future cadastral infrastructures.