Visualizing optimization algorithms via rapid prototyping of graphical user interfaces

Graphical visualization of algorithm behavior can be a powerful technique for assessing the effectiveness of different algorithms and heuristics, provided that the graphical user interface (GUI) can be prototyped and modified quickly. Visualization was used to prototype a placement and routing package for the MITRE digital transform machine (DTM), a reconfigurable logic array. Use of the galaxy, programming language and environment greatly simplified GUI construction, allowing the prototyper to concentrate on placement and routing algorithms instead of the details of conventional GUI programming