1. Configuration Agents, Control and Privacy Shari Trewin, IBM Research trewin@us.ibm.com

2. Definitions Configuration:Configuration: –the process of adapting an interface to suit a specific user's requirements Configuration agent:Configuration agent: –software which attempts to proactively support users in relation to configuration

3. User Diversity

4. Building a User Profile

5. Barriers to User Control Physical –control of interface devices Sensory –perception of information Cognitive –language complexity, user knowledge, memory demands

6. Can Agents Help? Yes! In two ways: By identifying relevant configuration options and appropriate settings By acting on the users behalf

7. Control

8. An Agent in Action

9. Privacy Profile information is sensitive: –visual acuity, physical dexterity, memory, experience, cognitive skills Users should control profile storage Users should control monitoring System control is top priority

10. Configuration Control

11. Summary configuration is essential but difficult agents could help to overcome the major barriers agent design must: –respect user privacy –augment not replace existing user control –proactively support users whose initial control is low