A methodology for choosing data representations

The process of matching the type of information of interest with the ability of the different representation properties to convey this information is formalized in a generic framework. Visualization approaches are discussed, and the natural scene paradigm on which the methodology for choosing a representation is based is described. Data types and interpretation aims are explored. The use of the paradigm, the matching process, and implementation and display of the representation are described. The advantages of the methodology over ad hoc display approaches are examined.>