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Visualization of Network Concepts: The Impact of Working Memory Capacity Differences

Author

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  • Bin Zhu

    (Information Systems Department, School of Management, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215)

  • Stephanie A. Watts

    (Information Systems Department, School of Management, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215)

Abstract

As networks of all forms become ubiquitous, the network-based information they generate is increasingly being used in a wide variety of analysis tasks. In organizations, social network analysis techniques are being applied to a number of domains, particularly the understanding of knowledge stocks and flows. Because this information is generated from large data sets, computerized visualizations of it are very helpful for accomplishing these complex tasks. This paper presents a model for evaluating the effectiveness of network visualizations based on theories of cognitive fit, working memory capacity, and information load. The model was empirically tested in two experiments using two types of data visualizations from two different social networks. Results support the theoretical model, illustrating that variations in cognitive fit and working memory interact. Findings suggest that visualizations can enable superior outcomes when they are designed to support this interaction.

Suggested Citation

  • Bin Zhu & Stephanie A. Watts, 2010. "Visualization of Network Concepts: The Impact of Working Memory Capacity Differences," Information Systems Research, INFORMS, vol. 21(2), pages 327-344, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:orisre:v:21:y:2010:i:2:p:327-344
    DOI: 10.1287/isre.1080.0215
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Rahul Basole & Elliot Bendoly & Aravind Chandrasekaran & Kevin Linderman, 2022. "Visualization in Operations Management Research," INFORMS Joural on Data Science, INFORMS, vol. 1(2), pages 172-187, October.
    3. Yu, Yan & Hao, Jin-Xing & Dong, Xiao-Ying & Khalifa, Mohamed, 2013. "A multilevel model for effects of social capital and knowledge sharing in knowledge-intensive work teams," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 33(5), pages 780-790.
    4. Dong Kong & Yanli Wang & Kai Sun, 2022. "Design of Care Decision Support System Based on Home-Based Behavior of Elderly: A Design Science Study," SAGE Open, , vol. 12(1), pages 21582440221, March.
    5. Ayşegül Engin, 2021. "The cognitive ability and working memory framework: Interpreting cognitive reflection test results in the domain of the cognitive experiential theory," Central European Journal of Operations Research, Springer;Slovak Society for Operations Research;Hungarian Operational Research Society;Czech Society for Operations Research;Österr. Gesellschaft für Operations Research (ÖGOR);Slovenian Society Informatika - Section for Operational Research;Croatian Operational Research Society, vol. 29(1), pages 227-245, March.

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