Looking at “situated” technology: Differences in pattern of interaction reflect differences in context

Abstract

Technology cannot be considered as a stand-alone element; it is always situated in a spatial and organizational context. To understand technology usage, we must focus on the context in which this usage takes place. We conducted two field studies of everyday interactions with and around copier machines. This paper describes these two studies and the interaction patterns that we observed. We found some variations in these interaction patterns. These variations can be interpreted as reflecting differences in contexts – both spatial and organizational.