Title :
An Overview of 3D Software Visualization
Author :
Teyseyre, Alfredo R. ; Campo, Marcelo R.
Author_Institution :
Fac. de Cienc. Exactas, Univ. Nac. del Centre de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil
Abstract :
Software visualization studies techniques and methods for graphically representing different aspects of software. Its main goal is to enhance, simplify and clarify the mental representation a software engineer has of a computer system. During many years, visualization in 2D space has been actively studied, but in the last decade, researchers have begun to explore new 3D representations for visualizing software. In this article, we present an overview of current research in the area, describing several major aspects like: visual representations, interaction issues, evaluation methods and development tools. We also perform a survey of some representative tools to support different tasks, i.e., software maintenance and comprehension, requirements validation and algorithm animation for educational purposes, among others. Finally, we conclude identifying future research directions.
Keywords :
data visualisation; human computer interaction; program visualisation; reverse engineering; software maintenance; 3D software visualization; algorithm animation; development tool; educational purpose; evaluation method; interaction issue; requirements validation; software comprehension; software engineer; software maintenance; visual representation; H.5.2.f Graphical user interfaces; I.3.7 Three-Dimensional Graphics and Realism; I.6.9.f Visualization systems and software; I.6.9.g Visualization techniques and methodologies; Computer Graphics; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; Software; Software Design; User-Computer Interface;
Journal_Title :
Visualization and Computer Graphics, IEEE Transactions on
DOI :
10.1109/TVCG.2008.86