Position Paper: Potential Areas of Bias in Visualization-as-Input Systems
Input Visualization Workshop at IEEE VIS 2025
Abstract
Visualizations are typically seen as tools for interpreting and analyzing data, yet in visualization-as-input systems, where users enter information directly into a visual interface, the structure of the
visualization may actively shape the data input by the user. This
paper argues that visual aspects such as Scaffolding Elements (e.g.,
axes, ranges, and labels) and Anchor Points (e.g., visualized data)
influence what users perceive as appropriate, complete, and accurate input. I outline a high level research agenda for the community
to empirically study how these structural aspects guide user input.
By reframing visualization-as-input as a dynamic way to elicit data,
I highlight the need for design strategies that mitigate bias and promote more authentic and representative user data.
Materials