Visualization techniques supporting performance measurement system development

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to understand how performance measurement system development process can be supported by visualization techniques. It analyses the suitability of different visualization techniques in the tasks needed in designing, implementing and using performance measurement. Design/methodology/approach The research builds upon literature review and analysis. The empirical access to five recent performance measurement system development projects is also used to evaluate the applicability of visualization techniques. The emphasis is in information visualization, and the following techniques are examined: maps, diagrams, networks, visualized models, graphs, charts and dashboards. Findings The study provides a concise overview on visualization techniques highlighting the managerial tasks related to performance measurement system development process. It contributes as a discussion opener inviting more academicians to study the topic of visualization in management and to further test and broaden the proposals presented in the paper. Research limitations/implications Further in-depth empirical research is needed regarding each phase of performance measurement development process. A further study could also stress more the proactive use of performance measurement paying attention also to the external environment. Practical implications The topic of information visualization is practically driven. The results support practitioners in evaluating and choosing visualization techniques supporting their timely challenges in the performance measurement development. Originality/value Few studies on information visualization have been carried out in the context of management science. Visualization can integrate human in the data exploration process and improve understanding over large data sets without complex quantitative methods. Visualization techniques have been proposed as powerful means to enhance the effectiveness of performance measurement. This study structures and clarifies the ambiguous topic of visualization and performance management and suggests areas for further research.