The organizational layer of the user interface

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

10-1-2003

Abstract

Organizations, according to Pfeffer (1981) are "systems of shared meanings and beliefs" that are built in part by language, symbolism, and ritual. Individuals leam how to cope with problems, identify important information, and manage change largely through these shared meanings and beliefs. This definition implies boundaries beyond which the language and symbols no longer work. Both endogenous and exogenous forces such as corporate mergers, cooperative ventures, a contracted workforce, and telecommuting are some of the forces redefining organizations and resetting the boundaries between them. While cultures may remain distinct, there is a growing need for organizations to share elements of their information and culture in order to achieve common goals. Information systems are designed to support organizational functions. These systems may establish a formula for computing a value, follow a routine to complete a transaction, define a concept utilized by the function, or support other tasks. The purpose of the user interface of these systems is to help the individual to complete a task or function efficiently and effectively. Organizations typically customize and personalize these interfaces and these systems to apply their own formulas, processes, definitions and brands for the application. When organizations enter cooperative ventures and attempt to share data and processes, problems arise due to the varied, and perhaps conflicting, meanings and processes. The goal of this session is to examine issues related to developing an "organizational interface," including the challenges of integrating functions, vocabularies, and data.

Identifier

34247136000 (Scopus)

Publication Title

Proceedings of the Asist Annual Meeting

External Full Text Location

https://doi.org/10.1002/meet.1450400164

ISSN

15508390

First Page

446

Volume

40

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