Exploring Heterogeneous Datasets from Different Searcher Perspectives

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Description/Abstract

This paper demonstrates how a recently developed analytical usability evaluation method, the Sii framework, can by used to inspect semantic search interfaces for how they support people working with the large heterogeneous datasets afforded by linked data. To enrich the discussion, an analysis of the Tabulator browser for linked data is presented and discussed in terms of the workshop’s case study surrounding archivists. The analysis shows that while the Tabulator provides some strong support for sense-making, it would struggle to support such archivists in first defining their needs. In analyzing the Tabulator from the perspectives of the archivists, this paper demonstrates how the new Sii method can provide rigor and reason to the assessment of future design decisions made for semantic web user interactions.