DEVise uses a relational data model to coordinate multiple views of large datasets. Users can create, destroy, coordinate, and specify the contents of views interactively. Its only view—the scatterplot—and few coordination types—cursor, visual link, record link, and set link—are quite powerful. However, reproducing common visualization constructions in DEVise frequently involves convoluted chains of linked scatterplots (many of which are undesirable artifacts that must be intentionally hidden offscreen). Coordination graphs of DEVise visualizations reveal that all four coordination types can be reproduced by treating the X and Y ranges of scatterplots as shared objects or as dynamic parameters in simple query expressions. This discovery motivated the design of live properties and coordinated queries in Improvise. The visualization shown here was the second of two used in this discovery process.

This visualization shows the screen layout and coordination structure of DEVise visualizations. The data consists of session descriptions created using the Session Dump feature in DEVise.

The user starts by selecting a DEVise session from the list. The list displays the name, the number of views and links, and a miniature screen layout of each session. The layout of the selected session is shown in a large scatterplot with a portal lens that labels each of the DEVise views in its bounds. Two smaller scatterplots, showing the same screen subregion as the portal, display how links and cursors coordinate views in the layout.

The graph view displays a coordination graph of the session, showing DEVise views as nodes and the links that connect them as color-coded edges. Three table views summarize the views, links, and cursors in the session. Records representing DEVise views can be selected (and are highlighted) in the three scatterplots, the graph view, and the table views. Records representing DEVise links can be selected (and are shown highlighted or as fatter arrows) in these views.

The checkboxes allow the user to select which types of DEVise links are visible in the smaller scatterplots, the graph view, and the links table view.

Visualization (28 KB)
Video Tour (5.5 MB)