If people had confidence that the ROS Web site consistently offered the most current information, it could easily become the standard reference tool for the corporation. Ensure that information is maintained at a central location by the people who normally prepare and maintain the original content. All ROS modules are built around a common template. The goal was to create a consistent user experience and, since many of the users are not experienced Web users, GM and SI wanted to take advantage of acquired instructional skills developed by using common patterns of navigation for each module. The common template guarantees that once users learn how to navigate and use one ROS module, they will be able to effectively use any module within the system.
Commonality reduces the training time needed to teach users how to use the system.
A file folder design was selected for the ROS template since most of the users would be familiar with how filing cabinets work. SI designed ROS for a less computer-experienced audience and provided a comfort zone for the transition to a more technical form of training. The combined expertise and teamwork helped create a full-service online training and reference tool that offers an incredible amount of detail yet remains easy to use. There were initial concerns about technophobia a fear or distrust of new technologies, including computers among some potential users. At the time the first ROS component was launched, a high percentage of users had never used the Web before.