Outline Groupware Classification of Groupware The Time/Space Matrix Classification by Function

What is Groupware? A Software specifically designed To support group working With cooperative requirement in mind Groupware is not Just tools for communication Synonymous with CSCW (Computer-Supported Cooperative Work)

Classification of Groupware Groupware can be classified by when and where the participants are working the function it performs for cooperative work

The Time/Space Matrix Classify groupware by: when the participants are working – at the same time or not where the participants are working – at the same place or not Common names for axes: time: synchronous/asynchronous place: co-located/remote

Face to face communication The Time/Space Matrix Co-located Remote Synchronous Face to face communication Telephone Asynchronous Post-it Notes Letter

Shared work surfaces, editors etc Co-authoring systems & calendars The Time/Space Matrix Co-located Remote Synchronous Meeting rooms Video Conference, Video-wall etc Asynchronous Argumentation tools Email & Electronic conference Shared work surfaces, editors etc Co-authoring systems & calendars

Classification by Function P Understanding Dir. Communication A Control & Feedback

Classification by Function What interactions does a tool support? Computer-mediated communication: Direct communication between participants Meeting & decision support systems: Common understanding Shared application & artifacts: Control & feedback with shared work objects

Disproportionate effort Who puts in the effort is not who gets the benefit Example: Shared diary: Effort: secretaries & subordinates, enter data Benefit: for managers, easy to arrange meetings Results: falls into disuse Solution: Coerce use ! Design in symmetry

Free rider problem Even if no bias still problem Example: Solutions: Possible to get benefit without doing work If everyone does it, system falls into disuse Example: Electronic conferences: can read but never contribute Solutions: Strict protocols (e.g. round robin) Increase visibility – rely on social pressure

Critical mass Early telephone system: Few subscribers – none to ring Lots of subscribers – never stops ringing ! Electronics communications similar: Benefit proportional to number of subscribers Early users have negative cost/benefits Need critical mass to give net benefits How to get started? Look for cliques to form core user base Design to benefit an initial small user base

Organizational Issues Groupware effects organizational structures Communication structures reflect line management – often physical location also Email – cross-organisational communication Disenfranchises lower management disaffected staff and ‘sabotage’ Technology can be used to change management style and power structures But need to know that is what we are doing.

Invisible worker Telecommunications improvements allow: Neighborhood work centers Home based Tele-working Many ecological & economic benefits Reduce family commitments but: ‘Management by presence’ doesn't work Presence increases perceived worth – problems for promotion Barriers to Tele-working are managerial/social not technological