[Sigia-l] Graphic visualization of hierarchical information

[Stewart Dean]

>From: Diane Deseta <deseta at mindspring.com>

>http://news.com.com/2001-11386_3-0.html?tag=ne.tab.hd
>Scroll down to the middle of the page to the What’s Hot area and select 
>the graphic radio button.

<snip>
>
>Although I give them kudos for the gutsy move I’m giving them several 
>demerits for a less than refined presentation. I particularly dislike the 
>placement of the legend at the bottom of the graphic; seems like a rookie 
>mistake to me. I also would have expected a little more graphical 
>refinement in terms of font and used something other than a bunch of boxes 
>with bold outlines.
>
>What do you think?

I agree with you it's a brave step but looking at the two views my instant 
reaction was, why not combine the two. The weird grid layout doesnt add 
anything whilst the colours and size do. The concept of 'browning' articles 
goes back to early thoughs for the Mac Interface. So why not have a list 
with article icons or some kind of indicator with different colours and more 
important (based on what - I don't like hiding criteria from the user) at 
the top, maybe more promenent.

With correct handling this would allow the same information to be presented 
in a cleaner more acceptable form (and more readable). You could also show 
more information if needed.

Stewart Dean