Validating Graph Drawing Aesthetics

Purchase, Helen C. and Cohen, Robert F. and James, Murray (1996) Validating Graph Drawing Aesthetics. In: Symposium on Graph Drawing, GD 1995, September 20-22, 1995 , Passau, Germany , pp. 435-446 (Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BFb0021827).

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Abstract

Designers of graph drawing algorithms and systems claim to illuminate application data by producing layouts that optimize measurable aesthetic qualities. Examples of these aesthetics include symmetry (where possible, a symmetrical view of the graph should be displayed), minimize edge crossings (the number of edge crossings in the display should be minimized), and minimize bends (the total number of bends in polyline edges should be minimized). The aim of this paper is to describe our work to validate these claims by performing empirical studies of human understanding of graphs drawn using various layout aesthetics. This work is important since it helps indicate to algorithm and system designers what are the aesthetic qualities most important to aid understanding, and consequently to build more effective systems.

Item Type:Conference Paper
Additional Information:10.1007/BFb0021827
Classifications:G Algorithms and Complexity > G.910 Symmetries
G Algorithms and Complexity > G.210 Bends
P Styles > P.780 Symmetric
D Aesthetics > D.001 General
P Styles > P.999 Others
ID Code:199

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