NicheWorks - Interactive visualization of very large graphs

Abstract

The difference between displaying networks with 100-1000 nodes and displaying ones with 10,000-100,000 nodes is not merely quantitative, it is qualitative. Layout algorithms suitable for the former are too slow for the latter, requiring new algorithms or modified (often relaxed) versions of existing algorithms to be invented. The density of nodes and edges displayed per inch of screen real estate requires special visual techniques to filter the graphs and focus attention. A system for investigating and exploring such large, complex data sets needs to be able to display both graph structure and node and edge attributes so that patterns and information hidden in the data can be seen. We describe a tool that addresses these needs, the NicheWorks tool. We describe and comment on the available layout algorithms and the linked views system, and detail an example of the use of NicheWorks for analyzing web sites.