HBKU Concludes First International Conference on Visualization and Computer-Human Interaction

Qatar’s growing technological prowess was on display at the 1st International Conference on Visualization and Computer-Human Interaction (VisCHI). Organized by Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), the event gathered experts and users of scientific and data visualization as well as computer-human interaction technologies.

Held November 25-26, VisCHI featured an eclectic mix of discussions and interactive sessions designed to raise awareness of local and global contributions to visualization and computer-human interaction capabilities. Proceedings also included a poster competition and hackathon. For the poster competition, participants from academia, industry and the public sector were tasked with designing posters highlighting cutting edge research in data visualization, user-centric design and interrelated disciplines. 

VisCHI’s hackathon contest encouraged the full use of relevant visualization technologies to disseminate real-world data. Participants also benefited from a series of evening lectures in the build-up to the event that provided them with the necessary skills to design effective visualization materials and resources. Both the poster competition and hackathon were judged by an international jury with the best entries awarded at the event. 

Speaking after the conference, Dr. Michael Aupetit, a senior scientist at QCRI, said: “We believe this first VisCHI was a resounding success for two key reasons. First, our ability to attract global experts to this event reflects Qatar’s place at the forefront of developments in visualization and computer-human interaction. Second, our blend of discussions and interactive sessions allowed participants to engage freely with researchers and designers of these technologies. We’re confident that this will foster more of the multidisciplinary computing research required to fuel Qatar’s and the wider region’s innovation and technology capacities.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to the partners that helped to make VisCHI happen. Thanks to the funding provided by Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) and Qatar Smart Program (TASMU), we were able to provide two days of high-quality learning experiences and opportunities for all participants.”

Dr. Dena Al Thani, assistant professor at CSE, added: “VisCHI was the perfect opportunity to highlight our capabilities in the fields of visualization and computer-human interaction technology. Doing so also reinforced CSE’s determination to conduct research and development that has a positive impact on Qatar and further afield.”

Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) regularly holds events to highlight its research activities and projects. For more information, please visit qcri.hbku.edu.qa

For more information on the work of the College of Science and Engineering (CSE), please visit cse.hbku.edu.qa