Model Testing of Users' Comprehension in Graphical Animation: The Effect of Speed and Focus Areas

• Published in: International journal of human-computer interaction 2001-03, Vol.13 (1), p.53-73
• Main Author: Lightner, Nancy J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1044-7318; 1532-7590
• DOI: 10.1207/S15327590IJHC1301_4

Graphics provide a means of displaying large numbers of data points at one time. Multidimensional graphs are used for recognizing trends and analyzing a business environment for decision making. When several images are shown in an ordered sequence, an animated display is created. As the use of graphical, animated displays becomes more prevalent for business analysis and decision making, a better understanding of the conditions under which these displays are useful is needed. This research presents a model of animation speed setting based on Bloch's law of temporal summation; rapid, sequential, visual presentation; and eye movement timings. The model was tested in a laboratory experiment. The experimental results indicate that the model can be used to determine animation speed but only within the limits of human comprehension. Response accuracy to basic comparison questions was highest when the number of nonadjacent areas viewed on the display was 1 or 2. Based on these findings, a revised model is presented as well as a new guideline for interface design.