VRML browser plug-in: In order to be able to view both live and pre-generated VRML scenes, you have to install Cortona VRML Client that seamlessly plugs into your browser (be it Internet Explorer or Netscape). As many demos are based on VRML 1.0 standard, you will also need to install Cortona VRML 1.0 Converter.
DRAFT: 22 November 1999
Anthony Judge
(UIA is currently exploring 1e through 2b)
Experimental web strategy by the Union of International Associations
The purpose of this page is to help you create your own lively information maps using our databases.
Natural Creations: Just sit back and let your JAVA map develop in its own way. Occasionally zoom in or out (Page Up or Down) or move Up, Down, Left or Right using the arrow keys (your mouse pointer has to be above the applet area). The natural tensions in the network of springs will position the nodes and eventually come either to rest or to perpetual movement. The structure you will see has not been pre-defined. Sort of natural creation, isn't it?
This page introduces and explains the applet-based visualization experiments used as interfaces to the databases of the Union of International Associations.
The maps are generated under user control via http://encyclopedia.uia.org/en. There are several pages from which a map may be (re)generated:
The UIA is faced with a major challenge of how to provide greater insight into complex networks of relationships amongst international organizations, world problems, strategies in response to them, human development and human values.
Beyond text: visualization, metaphor, logos, virtual reality and sound
Traditionally all information produced by the UIA has taken textual form, partly due to lack of resources, but also due to lack of adequate software to manipulate images or to generate meaningful graphics from UIA data.
Research on international civil society is conducted at the UIA in order to inform debates on strategies for a better world order. However, it is our opinion that to enrich these debates in more profound ways, we do not simply need new content or factual insight, but instead new ways of presenting and conceptualizing these debates and ideas. Therefore, the UIA has pioneered research into alternative means of conceptualizing information, networks and relationships, and strategies or philosophies for action.
A gallery of network visualizations was developed by the UIA over the decades - with the first experiments in 1971 (on a "mainframe" in a specialized lab), through various mapping and drawing techniques, algorithms, and technologies (VRML, Java, SVG, etc). The gallery can be viewed in visualizations gallery.
Live statistical widgets beta have been introduced by the UIA in July 2009 as a new service in the field of visualization of complex information related to the global civil society networks.
From Wikipedia about web widget:
