The usage of a simulation's visualization varies enormously within our community: for some, it is the simulation; for others, it is a development annoyance used for a screen-shot in presentations before the "proper" statistical results can be shown. Real-world systems are, for the most of us, explored visually so a simulation's visualization allows us to reconnect the simulation to its underlying system through the same media we experience it. However, simulation models are not perfect representations of reality and some of these imperfections maybe left out of the simulation's visualization. At best, this might be due to parsimony concerns by the developer (e.g. the color of a simulated entities shirt usually does not matter); at worst, charlatanism to sell the simulation package. In this paper, a detailed discussion is given on the use (and potential misuse) of simulation visualization and possible solutions.

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This research article outlines the design of a flood rate calculator developed in coordination with state and regional planning agencies of a coastal community in southeastern Virginia and reports on the results of a user experience test conducted on the design and utility of the tool. The tool is designed to allow users to calculate a rate for yearly flood premiums as well as learn about the factors involved in the actuarial framework-a complex set of data that is part of the National Flood Insurance Program, overseen by FEMA. Based on reflection on the design process and analysis of the test results, the authors offer recommendations for researchers, designers, and programmers interested in communicating flood insurance costs and risks to vulnerable coastal communities. CCS CONCEPTS • Human-centered computing → Interaction design; Interaction design process and methods; User centered design.