Visual representations in knowledge management: framework and cases

TLDR

The article investigates how visualization can enhance corporate knowledge management, offering a systematic, descriptive, and prescriptive framework alongside innovative examples. The authors develop a taxonomy of visualization formats embedded in a conceptual framework that guides application based on knowledge type, objective, target group, and context, illustrated with real‑life examples. They find that visualization offers extensive opportunities for knowledge management beyond simple knowledge maps, such as referencing experts or documents. The study urges managers to experiment with new visual languages—visual metaphors, graphic narratives—and rigorously assess their benefits and drawbacks.

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this article is to explore the potential of visualization for corporate knowledge management. Design/methodology/approach The employed methodology consists of a taxonomy of visualization formats that are embedded in a conceptual framework to guide the application of visualization in knowledge management according to the type of knowledge that is visualized, the knowledge management objective, the target group, and the application situation. This conceptual framework is illustrated through real‐life examples. Findings The findings show that there is much room for knowledge management applications based on visualization beyond the mere referencing of experts or documents through knowledge maps. Research limitations/implications The research implications thus consist of experimenting actively with new forms of visual knowledge representation and evaluating their benefits or potential drawbacks rigorously. Practical implications The authors encourage managers to look beyond simple diagrammatic representations of knowledge and explore alternative visual languages, such as visual metaphors or graphic narratives. Originality/value This paper consists of two elements: first, the systematic, descriptive and prescriptive approach towards visualization in knowledge management, and second the innovative examples of how to harness the power of visualization in knowledge management.