Metaphors vs . Visual Formalisms in Visual Information Seeking

Metaphors and visual formalisms are commonly seen as two different and separate concepts for the design of human computer interfaces. This article describes both concepts and their advantages and disadvantages. We claim that thorough consideration of the use of these concepts enhances the design of human computer interfaces. We also claim that strict separation of these concepts is not always possible or useful. Practical examples are given to support our claims and to demonstrate the problems as well as the possibilities of metaphors and visual formalisms in interface design.