From Analysis to Interactive Exploration: Building Visual Hierarchies from OLAP Cubes

We present a novel framework for comprehensive exploration of OLAP data by means of user-defined dynamic hierarchical visualizations. The multidimensional data model behind the OLAP architecture is particularly suitable for sophisticated analysis of large data volumes. However, the ultimate benefit of applying OLAP technology depends on the "intelligence" and usability of visual tools available to end-users. The explorative framework of our proposed interface consists of the navigation structure, a selection of hierarchical visualization techniques, and a set of interaction features. The navigation interface allows users to pursue arbitrary disaggregation paths within single data cubes and, more importantly, across multiple cubes. In the course of interaction, the navigation view adapts itself to display the chosen path and the options valid in the current context. Special effort has been invested in handling non-trivial relationships (e.g., mixed granularity) within hierarch...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2006
• Where: EDBT
• Authors: Svetlana Vinnik, Florian Mansmann
• Keywords: Aesthetic Hierarchical Layout, Database, Dynamic Hierarchical Visualizations, EDBT 2006, Hierarchical Visualization Techniques