Minimizing Cognitive Strain in Multi-Dimensional Asset Allocation Displays
Empirical evaluation of layered visual hierarchy, semantic color scales, and tactile micro-drills for complex multi-asset investment portfolios.
High-density financial dashboards frequently overwhelm investors by presenting simultaneous dimensions of liquidity, yield volatility, and tax liabilities. This study proposes an ergonomic disclosure hierarchy that compresses high-dimensional asset allocations into tactile, layered visualizations.
Using eye-tracking fixations and pupillometry (N=68 professional portfolio managers), we quantified cognitive fatigue across conventional tabular views versus progressive hierarchical canvas layouts. The spatial canvas reduced visual search fixation duration by 34% while preventing critical interpretation errors during rapid volatility spikes.
Visual clarity is not the absence of data, but the presence of meaningful typographic and spatial proportion.
