An Analysis of Text Functions in Information Visualization

Area of Science:

• Information Visualization
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Visual Analytics

Background:

• Text is an integral yet understudied aspect of visualization design.
• Prior research explored text's influence on comprehension and preference, but practical design and use remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a comprehensive framework for understanding text functions in information visualizations.
• To identify and categorize distinct roles text plays within visualization design.
• To uncover patterns in text usage and associated design strategies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 120 real-world information visualizations and 804 text elements.
• Identification of ten distinct text functions.
• Factor analysis to reveal overarching text-informed design strategies.

Main Results:

• Ten distinct text functions were identified, including data mapping identification and subtext presentation.
• Four overarching text-informed design strategies emerged: Attribution and Variables, Annotation-Centric Design, Visual Embellishments, and Narrative Framing.
• Text was found to be multifunctional and can even replace visual elements.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework adds nuance to existing models of text in visualization.
• Findings highlight text's flexibility in communicating, synthesizing, and framing visual information.
• This research provides a detailed understanding of textual design and use in practice.