The use of video in organizational studies

ABSTRACT

In this paper I discuss the use of video in organizational studies, in particular, studies which are characterized by long term observation of a group or organization. These studies are different than many other types of investigation of human behavior in that they occur in uncontrolled circumstances. In the past I've used video for the study of designers at work on specific tasks, including graphic designers and typographers working for periods between an hour and six hours. In each of these cases, all of the activity occurred within the confines of a certain time and in a place where the video was continuously available and in use. In contrast, the work that occurs within an organization happens across a number of people and locations. Interaction happens not only in meeting rooms and at desks, but also in the hallways, at lunch, and in bathrooms, places where video may not always be appropriate or available.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY

Additional Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.4 IMAGE PROCESSING AND COMPUTER VISION

General Terms:
Design, Performance