Boutique Data Graphics: Perspectives on Using Depth to Embellish Data Displays

Abstract

Embellishing simple graphs by adding perspective, “the 3-d look,” has become increasingly commonplace with the ready availability of graphics software. However, the effect of adding such decorative depth on the comprehension and recall of the graph's message has received little attention. The present study evaluated performance on common graphical formats (e.g., bar graphs, line graphs, and pie charts) constructed with and without the 3-d look. The addition of depth was associated with less accurate performance for subjects attempting to (1) estimate the relative magnitude of displayed values, (2) classify and describe trends, and (3) recall quantitative information about both specific values and trends. Although less accurate, subjects responded more quickly to the 3-d graphs when performing one type of trend classification. Line graphs, more than bar graphs or pie charts, were susceptible to the impact of decorative depth on performance. Further data suggest that the the use of 3-d designs, in addition to modifying performance, may influence the attitudes formed by subjects toward the information presented in the graphs.