Exploring Socio-Visual Dimensions of Input Visualization

We introduce the concept of socio-visual dimensions in data visualization, referring to the nuanced interplay between social and visual dimensions in people’s interactions with visualizations. From this, we discuss how input visualizations include implicit social dimensions that can be further explored and leveraged as part of a socially motivated research agenda for data visualization. Visualization researchers and designers create visual representations of data, often with the intent to inspire people to act for the greater good. Yet, research has only engaged in a limited sense with how to design with such intent and how people respond to these socially motivated visualizations. Understanding the socio-visual dimensions is crucial for addressing global challenges like climate change and public health crises, where collective action depends on fostering togetherness, a sense of community, and pro-social behaviour.