Knowledge mapping for rapidly evolving domains: A design science approach

Knowledge mapping can provide comprehensive depictions of rapidly evolving scientific domains. Taking the design science approach, we developed a Web-based knowledge mapping system (i.e., Nano Mapper) that provides interactive search and analysis on various scientific document sources in nanotechnology. We conducted multiple studies to evaluate Nano Mapper's search and analysis functionality respectively. The search functionality appears more effective than that of the benchmark systems. Subjects exhibit favorable satisfaction with the analysis functionality. Our study addresses several gaps in knowledge mapping for nanotechnology and illustrates desirability of using the design science approach to design, implement, and evaluate an advanced information system.