SpicyNodes was a system for displaying hierarchical data, in which a focus node displays detailed information, and the surrounding nodes represent related information (Focus + Context), with a layout based on radial maps.
When the user browses, nodes appear and disappear, and the layout rearranges to fit.
[2][3] SpicyNodes is a radial tree layout engine, modified using force-based algorithms, bias controls, and variable pivot point.
It also uses an approach similar to hyperbolic trees to reduce sizes far from the focus node.
The layout algorithm is based on the work of Yee and his associates,[8] and the underlying mechanics have been further described in papers and talks at conferences on Information visualization,[7] on Museums and the Web,[9] and on distance education.