#hcil Simplifying Network Visualizations with Motif Glyphs (Cody Dunne)

node-link visualizations break down at a couple thousand nodes, or particularly dense relationships
also want to reduce barrier of entry for novice users and make it simpler for everyone
better layouts, alternate visualizations, graph summarization
repeating patterns (motifs) exist, motifs often dominate, motif members can be functionally equivalent
fan motif: fan-shaped glyph; parallel motif: connecting relationship glyph
glyphs must be representative (shape, size, color), easily distinguishable, easily comparable, allow overlaps
interaction with glyphs to provide more detail and actions
network diagram -> categorical coloring -> glyph substitution -> color for value
implemented and tested in NodeXL; users successfully discover relationships they couldn’t see without it
challenges: only two motifs so far; glyph design has tradeoffs

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