Facilitating Knowledge Communication through Joint Interactive Visualization

Martin J. Eppler (University of Lugano, Switzerland)

Abstract: This paper presents further research findings on the use of software-based, collaborative visual communication tools for the transfer and creation of professional knowledge in organizational decision making contexts. The paper begins by describing typical knowledge communication situations and summarizes dominating problems in these contexts. It then reports on the real-life experiences in using three visual knowledge communication tools, namely the OnTrack visual protocol tool, the Parameter Ruler application, and the Synergy Map. The application experiences with these tools in four companies show that they can reduce some of the discussed problems. Their main benefits are focus, coordination, documentation, consistency, accountability and traceability. Their major improvement areas are accessibility and flexibility. Implications for further research and for further tool developments are highlighted.

Keywords: joint interaction, knowledge communication, knowledge disavowal, knowledge evasion, knowledge refusal, visualization

Categories: H.5.3, J.5