New dynamic visualization technique improves process model comprehension

Organizations, specifically big corporations, develop hundreds, sometimes even thousands of process models to convey process information to all participants. Process models are used in various practices in information systems. These models are inherently complex and difficult to understand in their static form. New technologies such as robotic process automation, blockchain, smart services, and Internet-of-Things have further diversified the scenarios where process models are employed. Since users have different learning preferences, this calls for visualization support to improve the comprehension of the models.

TU/e researchers Banu Aysolmaz (Information Systems) and Hajo Reijers (Mathematics and Computer Science) have developed a dynamic visualization technique for improving process model comprehension. Their solution adds adaptive animations on top of static process models, enabling all users – from novice to expert- to better understand and use the model in a single environment.

The study of Aysolmaz and Reijers shows that animation can be effective for problem-solving tasks that involve complex and multi-faceted artifacts rather than only simple retention tasks. Conceptual model use is dynamic in organizations in the sense that the users investigating models, the models that need to be comprehended, and the complexity of the models are ever-changing. Their adaptive animation solution opens up new opportunities to tackle the challenges of using conceptual models in various stages of systems analysis and development in IS research.

The study of the TU/e researchers was rewarded an A publication in the Information & Management #OpenAccess

Check out the web tool to see how it works
(You can try out sample models or upload your own. It can also provide ideas for the vendors of modeling tools: the principles, including configurable user support, are easily transferable).