Advanced Visualization for OLAP

Abstract

Data visualization is one of the big issues of database research. OLAP as a decision support technology is highly related to the developments of data visualization area. In this paper we demonstrate how the Cube Presentation Model (CPM), a novel presentational model for OLAP screens, can be naturally mapped on the Table Lens, which is an advanced visualization technique from the Human-Computer Interaction area, particularly tailored for cross-tab reports. We consider how the user interacts with an OLAP screen and based on the particularities of Table Lens, we propose an automated proactive users support. Finally, we discuss the necessity and the applicability of advanced visualization techniques in the presence of recent technological developments.