Cognitive Mapping as a Tool for Requirements Capture

This paper describes the application of cognitive mapping techniques, for eliciting and representing cognitive structure, to the problem of user requirement capture for the design of an electronic database. The research is based upon the assumption that organising information so as to be compatible with the structure of users' knowledge will enhance information retrieval by supporting more effective navigation behaviour. Although several researchers have noted the potential of cognitive mapping techniques, previous research has generally failed to address serious methodological problems associated with their application to design. A methodological approach is devised which addresses these problems, and thereby enhances the utility of the techniques as tools for user requirement capture.