Nature and purpose of visual artifacts in design science research

Design science is a recognized information systems research paradigm, which is fundamentally centered on problem solving through technology design. The design process involves reflexive thinking and exploration and is usually supported by a variety of visual artifacts, which facilitate structuring, combining, and communicating design knowledge. Visual artifacts are among possible main contributions of a design science endeavor. In this study, we analyze the nature and purpose of such visual artifacts. We adopt semiotics and a theory of visualization of thought, in combination with a literature review, to elaborate a framework of design science visual artifacts. We consider three domains of analysis: intentionality, form-and-function, and visual scheme. We demonstrate the applicability of the framework using two examples. Finally, we define a set of properties that researchers should consider when creating and using visual artifacts in design science: transparency of the relationship between representation and object, self-sufficiency of the visual artifact, and consistency of knowledge communication. The proposed framework helps researchers understand what properties should be focused on when developing their visual artifacts.