Purpose: We present a novel class of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment plan evaluation tools, which can quantify and record spatial aspects of dose distributions. Our approach is based on two central assumptions: 1) regions near the surfaces of clinical and planning target volumes (CTV and PTV) are less important to cover than regions farther inside the CTV and PTV and 2) hot spots near organs-at-risk are more acceptable if they are more distant. Current treatment plan review tools such as dose-volume histograms do not provide spatial dose information regarding the location of hot or cold regions. Our tools were developed out of our concern over the additional attention to detail required to review IMRT treatment plans. Details of a dose-distribution’s spatial characteristics can be obtained by examining two-dimensional isodose curves and independent GTV, CTV and PTV DVH analysis; however, this is a quasi-quantitative, time-consuming process and does not provide a simple and efficient way to compare competing treatment plans.