Making sense of document collections with map-based visualisations: the role of interaction with representations.

Introduction. This paper examines the role of individual and combined human-information interactions in sense-making activities involving document collections that are linked to map-based visualisations. In this paper it is assumed that sense-making in map-based visualisations of documents involves developing a cognitive map of interrelated semantic, geographic, social, and personal working spaces, their structure and relationships. Understanding these is facilitated not only by perception of their structure and relationships, but also by the user's continuous interaction with them. Elaboration. The paper presents, defines, and examines concepts dealing with the design of interaction for map-based visualisations using an example prototype system, VICOLEX (VIsual COLlection EXplorer). Our examination of interactions is analytical and supported by empirical evidence. Results. The main contribution of this paper is an analytical demonstration of the role that a set of interactions can play in supporting users' understanding of spaces and their formation of cognitive maps when working with map-based visualisations. Viewed in isolation, any given interaction may seem insignificant, yet when analysed and combined together, they can reduce the overall efforts of users and significantly facilitate sense-making activities. Significance. The ideas presented in this paper are useful for understanding and making sense of document collections and the design of tools and interfaces that help users explore any kind of structured information with geospatial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]