Embodiments are directed to managing visualizations of data using a network computer. A modeling engine may provide a data model that includes a plurality of data objects and a display model that includes a plurality of display objects based on the plurality of data objects. Parameter action objects may be associated with display objects in the display model. In response to an activation of the parameter action objects, values associated with display objects may be assigned to the parameter associated with a parameter action object and actions associated with the parameter may be executed to modify the display model.