Computer mediated organizational memory for process control : moving CSCW research from an idea to a product

Abstract

This study provides a rare examination of the development process of collaborative applications from a research idea into a commercially introduced software. The research challenge here is to investigate how to enhance the communication and information sharing in process control environments with computerized tools. Such environments can be characterized by time-criticality, complexity and turbulence. The study deploys the technological, human, and business approaches into a research driven system design. It draws upon experiences of a more than six-year longitudinal and constructive research project focusing on the design, adoption and tailoring of computer support (organizational memory) for process control environments.