Layout and structuring object oriented software in three dimensions

This paper1 describes interactive and algorithmic layout in GraphVisualizer3D, an experimental system for carrying out software engineering tasks via a three-dimensional diagram. In GraphVisualizer3D the software structure is represented as a nested graph so that, for example, the methods and data of a class will be shown as a sub-graph within a 3D box representing the class, and the class itself may be drawn inside another box representing a higher level module. We have developed a layout strategy that supports nested grids and that is designed to allow for algorithms to assist the user doing manual layout. In developing querying and layout tools for these 3D nested graphs we have come to the conclusion that layout, which is normally thought of as a method for making relationships clear, can become a powerful tool for structuring software, and also can be thought of as a rather special kind of query.