Big data visualizations for systems thinking in public innovation

Engineering projects are getting more complex, both for the private and public sectors, and many projects now require a systems thinking approach to deliver a successful project and outcome. We hypothesize that project digital knowledge through visualizations can be one means to encourage greater attention to systems thinking as one of the approaches to enhance knowledge within a project team – for both project managers and project team members. The current study explores the cognitive potential of project digital footprint visualization in inducing systems thinking to improve knowledge in the context of a Formula Student project carried out by a team of 30 final-year engineering students at a UK higher education institution. Action research and content analysis of interviews with the project managers revealed the potential of utilizing digital footprint data visualization in improving systems thinking and knowledge within projects.