Adjusting the design target of life-cycle aware HCI in knowledge work: Focus on computing practices

Abstract

The goal of this work-in-progress paper is to consider the utility of current theoretical and methodological HCI and work analysis approaches in understanding and supporting knowledge workers in their coping with contemporary computing ecosystems at work, and pinpoint the limitations of the design target formulation in current HCI approaches. The new approach discussed is to focus the design efforts, instead of technical artifacts, into the observation, understanding and development of computing practices as a resource for knowledge work. Alternative, emerging conceptualizations and methodological options to study and advice the development of everyday computing practices in knowledge work is proposed.