Graphical Sensitivity Analysis for Multidimensional Scaling

This article introduces graphical sensitivity analysis for multidimensional scaling. This new technique is designed to combat two problems associated with multidimensional scaling analyses: The possibility of local minima and the uncertainty regarding sensitivity of the solution to changes in the parameters. Graphical sensitivity analysis is currently available in ViSta-MDS, a test bed for graphical model examination. By graphically manipulating points in the solution space, analysts may examine the sensitivity of the solution to changes in the model parameters. Furthermore, the analyst may search for alternative solutions that represent local minima. An example of graphical sensitivity analysis using ViSta-MDS is described.