Using Metaphors in Dynamic Social Stratification Visualizations

We present three information visualizations for studying social stratification. Each Web-based applet uses a different metaphor to display U.S. Census income data along with the categories of race, marital status, and profession. Each system is completely dynamic, affording the user the choice of categorical variable to compare, as well as the choice of categories within each visualization. Two different user interfaces have also been implemented. The systems are described, compared, and their respective merits and deficiencies discussed.