Abstract:

DBLP (http://dblp.uni-trier.de/) is a web-based online repository containing bibliographic information for the most important publications in Theoretical Computer Science, an extremely dynamic and continuously evolving research area. DBLP provides free access to high quality bibliographic metadata and links to electronic versions of published papers in scientific journals and international conference proceedings. For example, in May 2016, DBLP contained more than 3.3 million publications, more than 1.7 million authors, with references to about 32,000 volumes of scientific journals and more than 31,000 international conference proceedings. More specifically, in the case of international conference proceedings, the available information also includes the place, i.e., city and country, where each conference was held.

The organization and hosting of an international conference in a city is an important event of particular economic and cultural importance. The gathering of delegates from different regions of the world and from various research / educational institutions (universities, institutes, companies, etc.) at a certain geographical point has a positive impact on the strengthening of local infrastructures (such as hotels, conference centers, exhibitions etc.) as well as the strengthening of the local economy (e.g., due to the generated tourism). In addition, hosting of major scientific events positively affects cultural development due to the contact and interaction of individuals and groups of varying cultural background, traditions, etc. On the other hand, the selection of the geographical location of hosting and conducting an international conference is usually a function of factors such as ease of access, available infrastructures, particular cultural features, etc. Sometimes, though, the fact that certain geographical locations are the origin of prominent members of a scientific community plays an important role.

In this work, we study extensive, open data from DBLP concerning the geographical points (i.e., cities, countries) where international conferences in Computer Science have been hosted. We analyze this data and implement graphical visual representations providing infographics which quickly and clearly present information on the geographical distribution of locations of international conferences in Computer Science. By identifying patterns and trends, we draw conclusions on how preferences on geographical locations for hosting scientific conferences are formed as well on the the impact of such scientific events on the culture and economy of the hosting locations.

Keywords:

Data analysis and visualization, DBLP, hosting international conferences on Theoretical Computer Science, infographics, science, culture, economy.