Participatory IT Design

Participatory IT Design presents an innovative framework tailored to the challenges of introducing new information technology systems into organizations. Drawing on a decade-long research project involving both Danish and American companies, the book advocates a business-minded and socially sensitive approach that values firsthand insights into users’ work practices. It outlines clear, workable guidelines designed to equip users, management, and staff with the knowledge needed to actively participate in the design process. At the core of the book is the MUST method - a structured approach rooted in theories and techniques of initial analysis and design that has been refined through thirteen diverse industrial projects. These projects span various sectors, from multinational industries to universities, providing real-world case studies that illustrate the method's practical application. The text is thoughtfully organized into distinct sections: an introduction to fundamental concepts and guidelines, followed by a detailed exploration of the four key phases of a design project - initiation, in-line analysis, in-depth analysis, and innovation. The final section functions as a practical toolbox, presenting an overview and detailed descriptions of sixteen techniques and related representation tools. Ideal as both a reference work for IT professionals and a comprehensive textbook for courses in information technology, Participatory IT Design combines theoretical perspectives with practical insights, making it an essential resource for anyone involved in IT system design and implementation.