On evaluating information visualization techniques

Abstract

Evaluating user interfaces is usually accomplished to detect design problems in layout and interaction. One possible way to evaluate image quality in computer graphics is visual inspection by experts. Information visualization techniques are usually presented showing their use in experimental situations, employing some kind of analysis. Nevertheless, few works have specifically addressed the evaluation of such techniques. This work reports our results towards the definition of criteria for evaluating information visualization techniques, addressing the evaluation of visual representation and interaction mechanisms as a first step.