Previous: Introduction | Next: Temporal Data Area
Time Bars
Where data is represented against a time flow along one axis, representations summarise key information about that flow in a region I’ll call a “time bar”.
Multiscale Techniques
Time bars often contain several scales. Typically the outer band is at the largest scale – often year ranges – while the inner band(s) are more fine grained.
The finer grained section is normally found nearest the main data window.
Overview/Sparklines
Time bar representations commonly include an element of summarisation of the data.
This graphical elements help give context to the currently viewed time slot, as well as providing convenient interaction points for navigation. They follow best practice according to Ben Scheiderman’s information visualisation mantra “overview, zoom & filter, details on demand.”
Banding
Banding/shading of adjacent time periods is a common technique. This allows the eye to correlate the time bar against the main data area.
Often bands mean something in context, e.g., weekends. These bands or faint lines are often are drawn on the main data area too.
0 Responses to “Time Bars”