ForceAtlas2 (paper) +appendices by Mathieu Jacomy, Sebastien Heymann, Tommaso Venturini, and Mathieu Bastian.
Abstract:
ForceAtlas2 is a force vector algorithm proposed in the Gephi software, appreciated for its simplicity and for the readability of the networks it helps to visualize. This paper presents its distinctive features, its energy-model and the way it optimizes the “speed versus precision” approximation to allow quick convergence. We also claim that ForceAtlas2 is handy because the force vector principle is unaffected by optimizations, offering a smooth and accurate experience to users.
I knew I had to cite this paper when I read:
These earliest Gephi users were not fully satisfied with existing spatialization tools. We worked on empirical improvements and that’s how we created the first version of our own algorithm, ForceAtlas. Its particularity was a degree-dependant repulsion force that causes less visual cluttering. Since then we steadily added some features while trying to keep in touch with users’ needs. ForceAtlas2 is the result of this long process: a simple and straightforward algorithm, made to be useful for experts and profanes. (footnotes omitted, emphasis added)
Profanes. I like that! Well, rather I like the literacy that enables a writer to use that in a technical paper.
Highly recommended paper.