Activity-Based Computing – Metaphors and Technologies for Distributed User Interfaces

Abstract

A recurrent challenge in DUI research is managing a task spanning multiple displays and devices. In this chapter, we propose to use the Activity-Based Computing (ABC) paradigm as an approach to form, manage, and use interactive workspaces. This approach applies ABC to distributed Multi-Display Environments (dMDE), i.e., environments with multiple devices and displays distributed across several spaces inside a large building. We describe ABC principles, current implementation and our ongoing work on activity-based dMDEs.