Comfortable Immersive Analytics With the VirtualDesk Metaphor

The VirtualDesk metaphor is an opportunity for more comfortable and efficient immersive data exploration, using tangible interaction with the analyst's physical work desk and embodied manipulation of mid-air data representations. In this paper, we present an extended discussion of its underlying concepts, and review and compare two previous case studies where promising results were obtained in terms of user comfort, engagement, and usability. We also discuss findings of a novel study conducted with geovisualization experts, pointing directions for improvement and future research.