On the role of design in information visualization

Vande Moere, A. and Purchase, H.C. (2012) On the role of design in information visualization. Information Visualization, 10(4), pp. 356-371. (doi: 10.1177/1473871611415996)

Abstract

Every information visualization developer is engaged in a complex process of design – balancing the three requirements of utility, soundness and attractiveness within given constraints. This paper investigates the oft-overlooked requirement of attractiveness (or ‘aesthetics’) in visualization, and, in doing so, discusses a wider role for the design process which emphasizes the benefits of disseminating design rationale. In presenting a model of three potential roles for design in information visualization, we suggest that the field would benefit from encompassing a broader scope that includes visualizations produced as part of commercial practice or artistic exploration. We conclude with a discussion on the practical consequences to the academic community of adopting our model – consequences that will require a paradigm shift in the way we value, teach and conduct information visualization research.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Purchase, Dr Helen
• Authors: Vande Moere, A., and Purchase, H.C.
• Subjects: Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA75 Electronic computers. Computer science
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science
• Journal Name: Information Visualization
• ISSN: 1473-8716
• ISSN (Online): 1473-8724
• Published Online: 02 September 2011