Towards a New Discipline and its Fields of Application
Remo Burkhard · 2004
Abstract In this paper, we establish the concept of knowledge visualization and review the state-of-the-art in this emergent domain. We define the concept and differentiate it from information visualization. We describe select background disciplines and potential application fields. Various knowledge visualization types are distinguished and examples of their real-life application are provided and discussed. Implications and future trends and perspectives are outlined. Key Words : knowledge visualization, knowledge maps, sketches, conceptual diagrams, knowledge management, information visualization, cognition, metaphors 1. Introduction Making knowledge visible so that it can be better accessed, discussed, valued or generally managed is a long standing objective in knowledge management (see Sparrow, 1998). Knowledge maps, knowledge cartographies, or knowledge landscapes are often heard terms that are nevertheless rarely defined, let alone demonstrated or described in detail. In this contribution, we review the state-of-the-art in the area of knowledge visualization and describe its background and perspectives. We define the concept and differentiate it from other approaches, such as information visualization or visual communication. Core knowledge visualization types, such as conceptual diagrams or visual metaphors, are distinguished and examples of their application in business are shown and discussed. Implications for research and practice are summarized and future trends in this domain are outlined.