On the role of design in information visualization

  • Authors:
  • Andrew Vande Moere;Helen Purchase

  • Affiliations:
  • K.U. Leuven, Department of Architecture, Urbanism and Planning, Heverlee, Belgium;School. of Computing Science, University of Glasgow, UK

  • Venue:
  • Information Visualization - Special issue on State of the Field and New Research Directions
  • Year:
  • 2011

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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 oftoverlooked requirement of attractiveness (or 'aesthetics'] in visualization, and, in doing so, discusses a wider rote 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.