Storytelling Data Visualization for Technology Forecasting: Developing an Efficient Technology Roadmap Application with Database Integration

Abstract

This thesis explores storytelling data visualization methods for a technology roadmap application. It is designed to shift a technology forecasting tool from static images of data to interactive data visualization with database integration. This research presents a dynamic, usercentered approach to visualizing complex technology roadmaps by addressing existing limitations in usability and user engagement through user studies with prototypes. It evaluates the results of a comparison of designs that were created based on literature reviews and collected user preferences for the use of Dashboard and Drill-Down Story designs. The evaluation includes both quantitative measures, including task completion time, accuracy and error rates of task performance, and questionnaire results, as well as qualitative feedback to gauge user preferences and experiences. The results of the research show a preference for the Dashboard design over the Drill-Down Story design because of its simplicity and the ability to access specific information in a single screen by interacting with the designs. Based on the results, this finding was applied to a web application with a real database to see the current technology limitations and what is feasible to develop. This thesis contributes to the broader discourse on data visualization by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of storytelling methods for a technology roadmap, specifically for vehicle technology. The insights gained from this study provide valuable guidelines for the design of user-centered visualization tools, emphasizing the need for simplicity, accessibility, and intuitiveness in data presentation.