Method, system and computer program product for visually approximating scattered data using color to represent values of a categorical variable

Abstract

A method, system, and computer program product for a new data visualization tool for determining distribution weights that represent values of a categorical variable and then mapping a distinct color to each of the weights so as to visually represent the different values of the categorical variable (or data attribute) in a scatter plot. The distinct colors of a splat are based on the distribution of categorical variable values in a corresponding bin, the distribution of which is represented by a vector. The vector contains as many locations as the number of different values for the categorical variable. The value stored in each location is typically a weight or percentage for that particular value of the categorical variable. Each location in the vector is also associated with a distinct color. The coloring of a single splat with multiple colors involves the rendering of each vector by looping through each vector location, and then based on the weight stored in that location, randomly selecting the same percentage of triangles in the splat for the color associated with that vector location. A threshold is used to help reduce confusion and decrease processing time by summing all weights below the threshold and assigning to it a single neutral color. A slider or other controller can be used to vary the value of the threshold.