Information visualization and interactive querying for online documentation and electronic books

ABSTRACT

In this paper we describe recent research that we have conducted on the use of information visualization [3] and a new style of query-based browsing [7] to enhance the exploration of online information. Our goal is to increase the performance and usability of online documentation, and of electronic information in general.Information visualization using three dimensional hierarchies provides a convenient way to overview information structure and select topics [3]. Interactive querying allows a highly interactive form of combined browsing and search using pen-based navigation [7].Early evaluations of the effectiveness of information visualization and interactive querying in information exploration tasks will be reported. Implications of these techniques for future online documentation systems and electronic books will also be discussed.

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