Death to the office of the nineties: An HCI perspective on some problems in modern office information systems
There is powerful evidence that office information systems and the information technology revolution are failing to deliver the expected productivity gains. Increased use of user-centred design and the associated methods and techniques of human-computer interaction (HCI) promise to improve an this poor performance. This paper demonstrates how empirical studies can help in, understanding the use and efficiency issues of systems within the modern office. Three case studies examine usability problems that arise from different sources. Firstly, a study of the usability of differing email formats shows that the actions of one user can impact an the efficiency of many other users. Secondly, a study of the use of web page bookmarks shows that even with effective tools, users can create information management problems for themselves. Thirdly a study of next-generation 3D systems for file and document management shows that the temptations of technology can confuse both designers and users in striving for more efficient tools. Throughout the case studies we illuminate some of the conflicting issues and factors that make HCI a deeply challenging and rewarding area of research.
hci office information systems empirical evaluation email overload world wide web bookmarks 3d interaction