Abstract

People often express and perceive information visually. Data that is used by computers often is formalized for computers' efficiency rather than for the convenience of humans. My research attempts to better support human's information needs by supporting visual expression in a semi-formal workspace. This talk focuses on two research projects that allow users to manipulate information in information workspaces augmented with features for visual expression. Both projects study how information workspaces can support work practices that involve unpredictable idiosyncratic processes. The process and the intermediate states that occur during a task often contribute a great deal to users' understanding of information and the task outcome. Our studies of these tools identify the value of providing support for semi-structured information manipulation during information intensive tasks.