The role of adaptive elements in web-based surveillance system user interfaces

Abstract

In this paper we present an analysis of improvements to a web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) for health surveillance systems. Such systems are designed to provide means to detect and suggest outbreaks and corresponding information about them from both formal (e.g., hospital reports) and informal (e.g., news sites) sources. However, despite the availability of different such systems, few studies have been carried out to discuss the elements of the system’s GUI and how it can support users in their tasks. To this end, we investigate techniques for adapting, structuring and browsing information in an intuitive and friendly way to the user, focusing on a transition from a static to a dynamic adapted web experience. We conduct a case study with health surveillance experts where we present a case for recommendations matching the user’s preferences within a system and discuss improvements to the presented GUI. We discuss improvements in the light of the feedback provided by these users, proposing how adapted elements of a GUI can be used to improve the user experience in a surveillance task.