Abstract

Storyboards developed in the filming discipline have a huge potential for representing complex conceptual networks of ideas. In origin, the storyboard shows the narrative sequences in images to frame a scene. More elaborated editions of storyboards link main storylines and sub-plotlines and show conceptual network elements in early design stages. In general applied as a tool in working progress, every element of the network and every link between these elements have opportunities for constant revision and it generates a flexible design framework. Regarded from a systematic design perspective, the storyboard enables to structure conceptual information in an efficient, flexible and visual way. This paper aims to examine the different representations of complex networks of ideas in frameworks that combine text and image in a narrating way. The notion network refers in this context to the neutral network theory, which is extensively applied in computing sciences as a narrative architecture, as well as to the system theory introduced by Von Bertalanffy (General Systems Theory, 1968). The analysis focuses on the main facilitating characteristics and criteria that are considered essential in the configuration of a storyboard that is capable to structure conceptual information. Besides a brief historical overview, contemporary perspectives are taken from different sections in the filming and theoretical fields. Directions and criteria will be given in order to model the storyboard as an instrument capable to provide an overview of the conceptual network and its inner routing. The storyboard triggers a dual purpose as a communication medium for complex conceptual knowledge within a wide design field. Firstly, it gives the possibility to function as an internal conceptual sketching board during the design process. Secondly, it has the ability to present conceptual information to the outer world in science, politics, education and society.