Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW)

Organizations, particularly complex ones, function most efficiently when the sum of its individual parts are able to interact smoothly, and with a common goal. With a large organization, including geographically displaced divisions, it is important to provide sufficient means for employees to communicate and work together. Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) provides an avenue to tackle more projects with greater efficiency. CSCW refers to an array of tools like video conferencing, e-mail, and multi-functional software.

The goal of CSCW is to discover ways of using computer technology to further enhance the group work process through support in the time and place dimensions. By doing so the organization will maximize the productivity return from technology and employee interaction. CSCW boils down to better run operations with better results.

It is important to understand the nature of CSCW and the natural reactions/interactions the average employee will experience in order to properly train participants. The most important key is to involve users in the HCI design from the start. This promotes understanding and usability of any developed system. Familiarity will help create a more positive integration experience. Additionally, the developer should be able to identify the primary cooperation barriers and breakdowns that are likely to hinder CSCW development.

The most important factor in training is clear communication between developers and users. This can come in the form of hands-on, vocal, or written instructions. Receiving training on multiple levels and platforms aides reinforcement and understanding. Prototyping is a method testing a new system by involving users in a test of a rough final version of the system. This can serve as an initial training step before more formal training occurs after implementation. Ideally, users will be comfortable with the new technology as well as know where to seek help if the need arises.

As mentioned earlier, the primary benefit of implementing a form of CSCW is in work productivity and efficiency. With respect to HCI design, there will be several methods for determining how effective this design has been.

· Frequency of use

How often do the users utilize this technology? Are they purposely avoiding it or using other means? These are important questions to ask when determining user satisfaction with the design. An unhappy user may try to avoid a system or minimize use.

· Complaints and Help Needed

Evaluating the number of complaints and help needed inputs you receive is a good indicator of HCI design. Hopefully, these were minimized in the development process but it is not possible to anticipate all user feedback.

· Productivity

When all is said and done, CSCW should lead to a more productive environment. If there is little or no improvement, this may indicate poor HCI design and would require further investigation.

· Requesting feedback

Perhaps the most direct method for investigating the effectiveness of HCI design is requesting feedback. This can be in the for of interviews, surveys, or even ethnographic observation. Getting data on user interaction is the best way to measure a system's effectiveness.