How notations are developed: A proposed notational lifecycle

Abstract

Notations develop over time. We propose that they characteristically pass through a series of development stages, starting very simple and becoming more complex, reaching a stage of complexity that hinders their usability: then, often, a new higher-level notation is developed that is once again simple, and will perhaps pass through the same development. Notations develop in this way because the way they are used develops. We propose 5 stages; Iconic, Flowering, Formalising, Support Patchwork, and Rebirth. Examples can be found in the development of various software systems, such as programming languages, CSS, and content-management systems; also in other domains, such as circuit diagrams and music notation.