On visual analytics and evaluation in cell physiology: A case study

Abstract

In this paper we present a case study on a visual analytics (VA) process on the example of cell physiology. Following the model of Keim, we illustrate the steps required within an exploration and sense-making process. Moreover, we demonstrate the applicability of this model and show several shortcomings in the analysis tools' functionality and usability. The case study highlights the need for conducting evaluation and improvements in VA in the domain of biomedical science. The main issue is the absence of a complete toolset that supports all analysis tasks including the many steps of data preprocessing as well as end-user development. Another important issue is to enable collaboration by creating the possibility of evaluating and validating datasets, comparing it with data of other similar research groups. © 2013 IFIP International Federation for Information Processing.