Abstract: A data visualization interactivity architecture may be provided. The architecture may allow the creation of a data visualization, such as a chart, and may expose an interactive feature on the visualization. The architecture may provide integration with multiple rendering platforms. When a user selects the exposed feature, the architecture may translate the selection into a common format and modify the data visualization according to layout rules independent of the rendering platform.

Abstract: A method and system for providing a user with user-friendly handles for manipulating graphics and other displayed objects using a pointer. An initial toolset of handles can evolve into a toolset with enhanced functionality. Selecting an object can invoke a first toolset. Pausing the pointer over an object for a preset length of time can invoke a second toolset with additional functionality. Continuing to maintain the pointers stationary position over the object can invoke a third toolset. A rotation tool handle can rotate an object about an axis of rotation in response to pointer-based input. Moving a pointer over a rotation tool handles can invoke an axis-of-rotation tool for repositioning the axis of rotation using the pointer.

Abstract: Methods and systems for associating two objects in a drawing application with one another are provided. Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a method in a computing environment that includes receiving a command to designate a target and designating the target. The method can further include identifying a subject and providing a suggested association of the subject with the target. The method can still further include receiving a command to accept the suggested association and associating the subject with the target as suggested.

Abstract: A computer system that assists the user of computer drawing programs to accurately place new objects on a drawing is described. The system establishes and displays dynamic gridlines according to objects already placed on the drawing. As a new object is dragged for placement on the drawing, the system analyzes the areas around the new object for already-placed objects. The system then determines the spacing between the already-placed objects and indicates to the user where the dragged object should be placed to maintain the same spacing as the objects already placed on the drawing.

Abstract: Multiple objects can be selected and then manipulated with respect to a common reference using a common manipulation operation without the need to perform grouping or ungrouping operations on the objects. Aspects of the common reference can be modified. The common reference can be aligned to the orientation of one of the selected multiple objects. Two or more dimensions of any of the selected multiple objects that is not aligned to the common reference can be proportionately modified to prevent distortion when the multiple selected objects are commonly resized with respect to a single dimension of the common reference.

Abstract: A computer system that assists the user of computer drawing programs is described. The computer system runs an application that displays modeless windows by first displaying an application window that presents information associated with the application. After the application window is created, the computer system displays a modeless child window that overlaps the application window, and within the modeless child window information associated with the application is presented.