Learning from Architects: Complementary Concept Mapping Approaches

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Automatic Layout of Project Plans Using a Metro Map Metaphor

In this paper, we describe a tool to improve inter-functional communication of project plans by displaying them as a metro map. Our tool automatically lays out plans using a multicriteria system adapted for the application area. Previous studies have shown that displaying project plans using a metro map metaphor as a complementary visualization to Gantt charts attracts and engages individuals, presents an overview of detail and initiates discussions. Creating such a map manually is time consuming. Hence, we have developed a software tool that converts a standard planning format into a metro map visualization and assists designers in generating comprehensible layouts. Our findings may be important for researchers in the domain of human computer interaction, project managers, knowledge visualization and communication scientists

Knowledge Visualization: A Comparative Study between Project Tube Maps and Gantt Charts

This paper compares the effectiveness of the Project Tube Map and the Gantt Chart for interfunctional communication in large projects where different stakeholders are involved. Today, Gantt Charts are well known in project management. However, the use of Gantt Charts has limitations: It fails in motivational aspects, it has difficulties to illustrate who is collaborating with whom, and it supports badly recall. The Project Tube Map has been introduced earlier as an approach to overcome these limitations. This paper compares the effectiveness of both visualization methods. Our findings from the evaluation of 44 interviews indicate that the Project Tube Map is more effective for (1) drawing attention and keeping interest, (2) presenting overview and detail, (3) visualizing who is collaborating with whom, (4) motivating people to participate in the project, and (5) increasing recall. The findings indicate that both formats complement each other. We further present an algorithm that allows the automatic creation of Project Tube Maps. The results presented in this paper are important for researchers and practitioners in the fields of Knowledge Visualization, Project Management, Visual Communication Sciences, and Information Visualization