Visualization implies the internal mental processes of constructing internalized images to interpret the world and make decisions in a given situation. Well-designed visualizations can contribute to the construction of appropriate internal models; it is important for designers to consider users' mental processes in situation changes when creating visualization. Visualization methods to embed users' dynamically changing internal contexts is challenging because many methods have focused on visualization methods for external context changes. This research introduces the concept of Context-Sensitive Visualization (CSV) which incorporates users' internal contexts into information system design. Consequently, this dissertation develops a methodology to map users' internal contexts in visualization mechanisms.;Context is conceptualized as the selected and activated mental models in terms of system use in a certain situation. In order to implement the CSV methodology, (1) representation of context models; and (2) layer-based visualization mechanisms for CSV are suggested. A computer-based tool, Design Information Framework-based Knowledge Management System (DIF-KMS) is used for facilitating the analyses and representation of context models. Then, the mechanisms for implementing CSV are developed in order to suggest the visualization schemes which are created by mapping user information onto the context models. By utilizing the suggested methods, designers can develop information systems in a human-centered way because the integration of human cognitive processes is important for product and system development.;Three simulators with two different versions, non-CSV-based and CSV-based versions, are developed for user studies of operating car navigation devices. By conducting usability tests using these simulators, the proposed CSV methodology is demonstrated and evaluated. The main findings from the test are that (1) users feel CSV-based systems are more intuitive because the systems work similarly to how users already understand and operate the world, and (2) users can quickly learn how to operate the system if interaction is designed considering user context transparently. In addition, the proposed method in this research can be adopted in a general design development process. This dissertation concludes by identifying its contributions and limitations, as well as future directions that can augment the investigation of integrating user contexts into information system design.
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