Integrating Work Organisation Aspects into the Design Process of CSCW Systems

Abstract

The CSCW (Computer-Supported Co-operative Work) technology has the potential to enable a flexible design of an organisation, as it can be used for making communication more flexible than before. However, we still lack methods for the design process of CSCW systems. In this article, a case study is presented of the development and test of a prototype in Lotus Notes for dealing with social insurance matters within the Swedish Social Insurance Board. The focus of the case study is on the integration of work organisation aspects into the development process of CSCW systems. The design of the technology and the organisation could affect the work organisation of the individual as well as efficiency and quality aspects. Scenarios are proposed as a method for discussion and design of the future work organisation of CSCW systems.