ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G05-037

Visualisation

This explanation addresses the term in its originating context. It is not an additional canonical Atlas profile.

Explanation

Visualisation constructs a visible representation that makes selected information or relationships accessible. In a diagram, spatial arrangement, connecting lines and size can highlight differences. Such design is not neutral: selection, scale and labelling affect what stands out and what recedes. An appealing representation is therefore not automatically correct or explanatory. Its quality depends on the question and fidelity to the represented data or relationships. An evidenced association must also be distinguished from graphic proximity introduced merely to aid orientation.

Movement of thought

1. Define the representational question. 2. Select relevant information. 3. Specify visual mappings. 4. Check distortions. 5. Test usefulness for the task.

Example

A flowchart shows decision points and possible routes; its arrows need a clear meaning, such as temporal sequence or a condition.

Counter-test

Placing two concepts close together does not establish a strong empirical association.

Scientific use case

Visualisation research can compare the tasks supported by different diagram forms.

Effect

Visualisation makes selected relationships easier to inspect.

Resonance

Visibility results from decisions about what should become visible.

Distinction

Distinguish visualisation from illustration alone, a neutral copy and an automatically proven explanation.

Sources