Handling Conflicts in Groupware: Concepts and Experiences made in the POLITeam-Project

Abstract

The activation of certain functions in groupware affects different users who might have conflicting interests. We will develop technical mechanisms to support users in regulating these conflicts. Contrary to current implementations of groupware, these mechanisms strengthen the position of the users which are affected by the activation of a function. Therefore, they provide visibility of activation, a channel for communication, or the right to intervene. After presenting the general concept, it will be shown how these mechanisms are used within the POLITeam project to support users in handling conflicts when activating certain functions.