A streamlined GIS interface for Citizen Science activities: QGIS Light

Abstract. Citizen science has emerged as a powerful way to involve the public in scientific research, especially in domains like environmental sciences, where participants actively collect data in the field. However, citizen scientists can contribute beyond data collection by engaging in data analytics to generate meaningful insights in collaboration with researchers. To support this broader participation, user-friendly and accessible tools for data visualization and analysis are essential. This study addresses this need in geospatial tools by introducing QGIS Light, a simplified version of the most widely used free and open-source desktop GIS software, QGIS. Developed as a plugin to QGIS, QGIS Light offers a streamlined working environment by simplifying the user interface, removing non-essential and advanced features, and introducing additional tools by default to support basic needs, such as accessing base maps and creating charts. The paper begins with an analysis of the QGIS user interface with a focus on simplicity of use. It then outlines the specific actions required to enhance the user experience for non-technical users. The logic and technical implementation of the QGIS Light plugin are subsequently described in detail. Finally, additional user interface challenges in QGIS that affect overall usability are discussed. The findings highlight the value of critically evaluating existing interface elements and refining them into a more cohesive and standardized experience. QGIS Light is a first step in this direction to enhance usability of QGIS and may also guide similar simplification efforts in other GIS software, helping to lower their typically steep learning curves.