Towards a periodic table of visualization methods of management

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the effort of defining and compiling existing visualization methods in order to develop a systematic overview based on the logic, look, and use of the periodic table of elements. We first describe the current fragmented state of the visualization field. Then we outline the rules and criteria we applied in conducting our research in order to present a revised periodic table of 100 visualization methods with a proposition how to use it. KEY WORDS knowledge visualization, knowledge visualization methods, periodic table, problem solving, classification, selection framework, visualisation types 1 The Realm of Visualization Methods The discipline of visualization studies is an emergent one and as such represents a so far still highly unstructured domain of research that includes scholars from such distant domains as human-computer interaction, graphic design, management, or architecture. Thus, there are many parallel, unconnected streams and development activities in this field that may move forward without mutually acknowledging or integrating efforts under way elsewhere. In order to contribute to the consolidation of these efforts and to the emergence of a distinct field that achieves cumulative research progress this article proposes an integrative overview on one aspect of the visualization field, namely the development of easily applicable visualization methods, that is to say systematic graphic formats, that can be used to create, share, or codify knowledge (in the sense of insights, experiences, contacts, or skills). In this paper, we present a simple structure, inspired by the use, look, and logic of the periodic table of elements developed in the domain of chemistry. There are numerous benefits that can be achieved through such a structure: First, it can provide a descriptive overview over the domain [1, p. 12] and can function as an inventory or repository like a structured toolbox. In this