wherewhich

Wherewhich is a term used in discussions of information retrieval and user interface design to describe a pattern that combines locating information with disambiguation among options. The concept treats a query as two linked tasks: determine where the item is (the location) and identify which item is being referred to (the target among candidates). The term is not standard in formal taxonomies but appears in UX case studies and theoretical discussions about integrated search and navigation.

Definition: The "where" component returns spatial context such as coordinates, addresses, or regions. The "which" component filters and ranks candidate items by relevance, attributes, availability, or user preferences. In practice, a wherewhich-enabled interface may present a combined result that shows a map or path along with a concise selection of matching items.

Applications: Geographic information systems, mobile search assistants, e-commerce with local inventory, smart home devices, and transportation apps. Example: "Where is the nearest coffee shop and which one is open now?" The system would return the shop’s location and identify one or more open options.

Implementation: Techniques include spatial indexing, disambiguation models, ranking algorithms, and user-context signals. Interfaces may use dual panels, map overlays, or unified cards that display location plus item identity.

Limitations: Requires reliable location data and disambiguation signals; privacy, latency, and user comprehension challenges can arise.