Putting task analysis into context

Abstract

In this paper we propose to open a discussion on the purpose of task analysis from the perspective of interface and interaction design. Our reason for doing this is that we are particularly interested in the concept of context and the way in which this concept may be used to shape techniques of task analysis. We argue that the concept of 'context' is most profitably understood as the process of contextualization and a framework is presented which shows how the process of contextualization operates in different interaction styles to serve the user's needs. Further, it is shown how understanding of contextualization enables the designer to reduce the complexity of an interface. The benefit of this perspective is that it clarifies shortcomings in current understanding of the role of task analysis.