EN
The article describes a new research method, popular among bibliometric and sciencemetric specialists, i.e. science visualization. Genesis, technologies, and stages of the visualization process are presented, with an example of matrix map for library and information science for the years 1996-2005. Research potential of this method were discuseed, in comparison with bibliometric methods. The article's aim is to encourage Polish scientists, interested in studies regarding science visualization, hardly popular in our country. The author describes mapping tools popular among visualization specialists, like Open Source, and their usability and technological features.