Unlike traditional information visualization, ambient information
visualizations reside in the environment of the user rather than on
the screen of a desktop computer. Currently, most dynamic information that is displayed in public places consists of text and numbers. We argue that information visualization can be employed to
make such dynamic data more useful and appealing. However,
visualizations intended for non-desktop spaces will have to both
provide valuable information and present an attractive addition to
the environment – they must strike a balance between aesthetical
appeal and usefulness.

To explore this, we designed a real-time visualization of bus
departure times and deployed it in a public space, with about 300
potential users. To make the presentation more visually appealing,
we took inspiration from a modern abstract artist. The visualization was designed in two passes. First, we did a preliminary version that was presented to and discussed with prospective users.
Based on their input, we did a final design. We discuss the lessons
learned in designing this and previous ambient information visualizations, including how visual art can be used as a design constraint, and how the choice of information and the placement of the
display affect the visualization.