Multiple-view Visualization Awareness Model and Measurement Method Construction: Based on Quantitative Analysis of Situation Awareness

Abstract

Multiple-view Visualization (MV) is the current trend in information visualization, presenting massive and complex data from multiple perspectives and through different aggregations. MV designs are often used in industrial inspection scenarios, and their interaction design affects the operator's Situational Awareness (SA) and thus the operator's decision-making. However, SA assessments of MV exist mostly after the design is completed and lack effective measurement methods. In this paper, we present an in-depth analysis of existing SA models, combine the design process and elements of MV, summarize the MV perception model based on the Quantitative Analysis of Situational Awareness (QASA), and propose a method to measure the SA of MV, so as to help designers take the SA into consideration before completing the design. A formal user study was conducted to compare the SA of different layouts, starting with the layout as a design element. Quantitative results showed significant differences in participants' SA when using different layouts. Participants’ feedback confirmed that this measurement method can help designers to conduct user studies on different MV elements to improve operators' SA when using the system.