An Introduction to Information and Data Visualization

Information is normally processed, arranged and organized in several ways. Information is used to make decisions, solve problems, learn about products and services, etc. It gives context to other data and allows successful decision making. For instance, a single consumer’s sale in a restaurant is statistical information-this becomes important data when the company is able to identify which the least popular or most popular dish is.

This information is of many types and is used in many contexts. Some context that can be identified as having a profound effect on the value and meaning of information is the continuous data processing cycle. The continuous data processing cycle refers to the act of collecting, organizing, analyzing and communicating data over an extended period of time. Data is collected into a database, stored in electronic form and may also be communicated electronically.

This analysis, storing and communication of information is referred to as the continuous data processing cycle. It is a very complex system. To facilitate analysis and interpretation it is usually done using what are called “observatory techniques”. Among these techniques are graphical (igraphical) and relational ( relational and causal) models.

The NERP (network, information theory, and statistical processes research) project started in the early 1970’s with the U.S. Department of Defense. Its objective was to develop a methodology of combining knowledge management, information technology and psychology in order to support network operations. In its basic framework, the project involved the use of networks and the Internet. This has become known as “data visualization”, “data compression” or “data visualization”.

A recent example of information booth display involves two rows of booths, each separated by a glass partition. Visitors are given a remote viewer which enables them to “see” the information in the booths. The information is then compressed into a format that can be viewed on a screen within the booths. As you can imagine this has many potential uses. One of these is that of an interactive entertainment system for outdoor conventions.

Another recent innovation is the interactive information display device or “whitewash”. This is also meant to provide a means of information interpretation and, of course, displaying and interpreting information. The whitewash is similar in function to a kiosk. However, unlike a kiosk the whitewash exhibits interactive digital information. There are now electronic displays that make use of the “whitewash” technology. This new technology makes it possible for the operator to interact with the audience.