Att röra det digitala : att introducera touch- och rörelsemonitorerade tjänster i det akademiska biblioteksrummet

Abstract

The concept of post-WIMP-based (post Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer) digital services can best be described as interfaces which are moving away from the traditional workspace environment with computers (desktop or laptop) controlled by a mouse and a keyboard. Post-WIMP interfaces focus on intuitive and tactile usage, such as touch or gestures in the air (among others). Libraries have recently begun exploring technology based on post-WIMP maneuver mechanisms, but little research has investigated the outcome. This thesis focuses on the implementation and results of post-WIMP-based technologies within the academic library space. The thesis aims to understand the libraries’ purposes and hopes for the implementation, but also to pin down elements concerning context, space and social norms that seem to have an impact on the actual usage. The subject is approached by exploring ‘early adopters’ and their experiences with these kinds of technologies. This is done through an interview study with key figures within academic library organisations that have implemented the technologies, both employees and users such as teachers and doctoral students. The interview material is explored through a theoretical framework focusing on socio-technical premises and social factors within the human computer interaction research field. The study shows that the usage is affected by factors such as resources within the organization, the infrastructure of space and user expectations on an academic environment. Sponta-neous use of public services tends to be short and “less academic” while usage within closed spaces tends to be longer and linked to the academic field.