Sitting around a table. Data visualization for cross sectoral exchange in European Projects

Since the most ancient times, the visual display of information has been applied in a broad array of disciplines as a vehicle to address sector-specific epistemology. However, this interpretation should not be considered as exclusive, especially in today's day and age: in fact, the exponential increase in the quantity and quality of information that we are experiencing brings to attention the cross-sectoral potential of data visualization. This contribution applies such perspective to the dimension of European Projects, where the heterogeneity in stakeholders’ backgrounds often prevents a mutual understanding between those involved. A specific example is brought: that of the RIStyling project, promoted by the Universities of Padua, Verona, Venice Ca' Foscari and Iuav, in agreement with the Veneto Region, in order to redefine the local Research and Innovation Strategies for Smart Specialisation (RIS3). In particular, we will focus on the work carried out by the Iuav University design team, aimed at identifying, and transposing into a visual form, the most relevant concepts which came to light within the multiple opportunities of discussion and debate arranged within the project. The contribution will firstly dwell on the technical tools used for producing the data visualization outputs, and secondly highlight the difficulties and criticalities encountered during the process; finally, the impact of the methodology on the whole RIStyling project will be presented and discussed.