Efficient group discussion with digital affinity diagram system (DADS)

Abstract

Collaborative discussion is an integral part of exchanging ideas and solving important problems. However, traditional approaches to group discussion have used analog tools that create problems for collaborative contributions. Many researchers have tried to use technology to overcome these limitations, but current digital collaboration systems isolate users from each other and do not promote efficient idea creation or allow users space to support ideas with evidence. The Digital Affinity Diagram System (DADS) presents a solution that encourages better group discussion by implementing three features: 1) Separation of private and common areas during initial phase to allow ideas to mature without initial critique 2) Intuitive input and navigational design to help users create, edit, view and manipulate generated ideas, and 3) Multi-platform synchronization technology to create real-time visual feedback on the discussion accessible to all users. DADS’ dual-monitor setup uses real-time network socket infrastructure so that multiple users can interact with each other under one discussion environment. We capitalize on multitouch hardware to create a natural, deep and structured collaborative environment.