Tables and graphs: A classification scheme for display presentation variables and a framework for research in this area

摘要

This paper organizes the variables affecting display presentation format (tables and graphs) into a classification system and creates a framework for research in this critical area which is currently in disarray. The message presented is that the user's performance is determined by other factors interacting with display presentation format and that to study display presentation format in isolation is sophomoric. Two factor (or more) experimentation is required. Applicable two factor experiments are reviewed. Careful attention to methodology is crucial, particularly with respect to choice of task and incremental replication.