1997/01/01 by Helen C. Purchase, Robert Cohen, Murray James · 2 citations
Computer Science · Mathematics · Engineering · #Data Visualization and Analytics #Graph Theory and Algorithms #Computational Geometry and Mesh Generation #Graph #Computer science #Algorithm #Basis (linear algebra) #Graph drawing #Arc (geometry) #Theoretical computer science #Engineering drawing #Mathematics #Engineering #Geometry
paper · doi:10.1145/264216.264222
openalex publication_date 1997/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/15
Designers of graph drawing algorithms and systems claim to illuminate application data by producing layouts that optimise measurable aesthetic qualities. Examples of these aesthetics include symmetry (where possible, a symmetrical view of the graph should be displayed), minimise arc crossing (the number of arc crossings in the display should be minimised), and minimise bends (the total number of bends in polyline arcs should be minimised). 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.