User support: illustrating computer use in collaborative work contexts

ABSTRACT

It is relevant for the users of a computerized information system to perceive the organizational context of collaborative work and corresponding information processes. It is possible to reflect these in a context support system. In order to demonstrate this, a theoretical framework for the realization of such support systems is presented. A context support system can be built around four types of module: 1) images of information media, 2) descriptions of jobs composed of task lattices, 3) illustrations of physical work units, and 4) visualizations of databases. The general module structures as well as some examples are presented. Both the framework and the examples are built around the idea of hypermedia as a potential environment of implementation.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES
      H.1.2 User/Machine Systems
          Subjects: Human factors

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS

  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY

General Terms:
Documentation, Human Factors, Theory