Making Complex Workflows Tangible: Investigating Immersive Analytics Approaches for Data Analysis Workflows

Zusammenfassung

Data Analysis Workflows (DAWs) are central to modern scientific research, yet their growing complexity presents significant usability challenges. Traditional desktop-based visualizations often lack the spatial and interactive affordances needed to support intuitive understanding and engagement. This study investigates the potential of Immersive Analytics (IA) to improve the visualization and interaction with DAWs. We developed two IA prototypes and tested them in a within-subject user study (N=18), collecting qualitative feedback and evaluating it through a systematic approach. Participants generally found the immersive environments intuitive and enjoyable, highlighting IA’s potential to support complex workflow interpretation and communication. At the same time, they noted several limitations, ranging from difficulties in navigation to occasional information overload. These findings emphasize both the promise and the challenges of using IA for DAWs. Together, these insights inform future work on developing mature IA tools capable of supporting diverse scientific practices.