Interpreting mapping accuracy

General considerations for interpreting mapping accuracy

Accuracy can only fully be understood and compared when:

• The full sample design is known, as this can influence the outcome

When comparing over all and individual class error and accuracy levels:

• Sampling design needs to be similar
• Mapping approaches need to be similar and classes need to be the same

Important considerations when assessing thematic accuracy:

• Overall accuracy is most commonly reported
• Overall accuracy > Tau accuracy > Kappa accuracy
• Accuracy varies with area size, number of mapping categories and/or sensor type.

accuracy and error assessment