SIM: A dynamic multidimensional visualization method for social networks

Visualization plays an important role in social networks analysis to explore and investigate individual and groups behaviours. Therefore, different approaches have been proposed for managing networks patterns and structures according to the visualization purposes. This paper presents a method of social networks visualization devoted not only to analyse individual and group social networking but also aimed to stimulate the second-one. This method provides (using a hybrid visualization approach) both an egocentric as well as a global point of view. Indeed, it is devoted to explore the social network structure, to analyse social aggregations and/or individuals and their evolution. Moreover, it considers and integrates features such as real-time social network elements locations in local areas. Multidimensionality consists of social phenomena, their evolution during the time, their individual characterization, the elements social position, and their spatial location. The proposed method was evaluated using the Social Interaction Map (SIM) software module in the scenario of planning and managing a scientific seminars cycle. This method enables the analysis of the topics evolution and the participants' scientific interests changes using a temporal layers sequence for topics. This knowledge provides information for planning next conference and events, to extend and modify main topics and to analyse research interests trends.