VAT: A Scientific Toolbox for Interactive Geodata Exploration

Abstract

Data-driven research requires interactive systems supporting fast and intuitive data exploration. An important component is the user interface that facilitates this process. In biodiversity research, data is commonly of spatio-temporal nature. This poses unique opportunities for visual analytics approaches. In this paper we present the core concepts of the web-based front end of our vat (Visualization, Analysis and Transformation) system, a distributed geo-processing application. We present the results of two user studies and highlight unique features, among others for the management of time and the generalization of data.