Three Dimensional UML Using Force Directed Layout

There is evidence to suggest that three dimensional representations of connected graphs have a number of advantages in conveying information to users over their two-dimensional counterparts. In this paper we explore the use of a Force Directed Algorithm to layout three dimensional UML Class diagrams representing the architecture of object oriented software systems. We describe a simple evaluation and usability study conducted on the proposed system and present our findings which indicate some unexpected benefits to a user's perception the visualised architectural structure.

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