Virtual environment design guidelines for gene expression analysis: the utility of a lab bench metaphor and a road metaphor

In this paper, we propose guidelines for the construction of virtual environments for gene expression analysis using an immersive projection display. The guidelines include two metaphors: a lab bench metaphor and a road metaphor. We implemented the prototypes based on the proposal. On the basis of evaluations of the prototypes, we confirm that our guidelines provide effective aids for users to understand the analytical process.