Complex Collaboration as a Driver of Innovation: Socio-technical Dynamics of Information System Development

Abstract

Drawing on qualitative research (interviewing and observation), I develop concepts and methods to inform the design of computational systems that support complex collaboration across disciplines and over long periods of time. Complex collaboration is a driver of innovation across diverse contexts—from science and engineering to business processes and artistic expression. This research is "socio-technical" and looks holistically across information system development components including data sharing, software development, organizational coordination, standards development, and social learning and negotiation. Central to this work is the concept of “productive friction,” which addresses fundamental questions about the relationship between ad hoc sensemaking and pre-established work practices. This talk, drawing on my many years of qualitative data analysis and empirically-derived theory offers practical value to any group assembling, working through, and making sense together of information, ideas, and values to develop collective plans of action. I will conclude with a brief discussion of examples in urological oncology, ocean science, and digital twins for semiconductor manufacturing. This research is one of the leading edges of the fields of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) where we are revisiting what fundamental concepts such as "interaction design" and "computer support" means in the age of AI and Internet of Things (IoT).

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