Computer-powered visualization tools that present information in a visually appealing, dynamic, and navigable way not only improve access to information but also encourage a better understanding of how pieces of information relate to each other.

With TouchGraph, a Java-based application platform, you can create dynamic visualization charts through an online interface.

An example of the TouchGraph application in action can be found at Mike-Love.net, a Genealogy of Influence visualization that shows the connections between 500 of the most influential writers, artists, philosophers, scientists, and mathematicians of Western culture. Roll over any of the names and you'll see a brief blurb about the person. Click on a name, and the entire chart morphs into a chart centered on the name you selected. If you right-click on the lines of influence and select the "Hide Edge" command, you can rework the graph to reflect a clearer picture of how one person inspired another.

TouchGraph's solution also includes search functionality, connections to remote and local databases, the ability to read data in multiple formats and analytic capabilities such as cluster detection and centrality ranking.