A Comparison of Spatial Grouping Techniques on Interactive Surfaces

Abstract

In this paper we report a comparative study investigating two interaction techniques for grouping items spatially on a tabletop interface. We compared a container technique with a proximity technique. The container concept was considered due to its familiarity with desktop systems, while the proximity technique is a novel organic concept based on spatial proximity. Our goal was to identify the characteristics of both techniques in regard to grouping and regrouping performance, grouping strategies as well as bimanual and multi-finger input. Our results indicate that the traditional container concept may not be an adequate fit for harnessing the benefits of interactive surfaces. Rather, our study shows that more informal spatial techniques based on proximity open up a promising design space for further investigations.