Man and information technology

In the past few years electronic information systems have penetrated into every sector and corner of society. This trend will undoubtedly accelenite in the years ahead, and this is why it is so important that the systems should not only operate more effectively, but also that they should be more easy and convenient to use.

One would imagine that the concept of 'user friendliness' would be more than just an advertising slogan or selling point, that it would in fact be a basic design requirement for such systems. The fact that the system designers have not always given it the attention it deserves can probably be traced to two causes. Until now designers have devoted all their energies to making their systems opera bie. Secondly, the users of the systems were themselves experts, to a greater or lesser degree, so they were able, and willing, to make the necessary personal adjustments demanded by the system.

Gradually, though, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of designing information systems which do have an affinity with the user. No longer are the potential applications determined by technical and economic constraints. So, if the systems are to be used effectively and efficiently, they will have to be adapted to the capacities and limitations of the people who will be using them. Remarkably enough, though, there appears to be little consensus on what it is that constitutes 'user affinity'. There is an al most total lack of any perspective.

The Netherlands Study Centre for Technology Trends felt that the time had come to collate and structure the various views on this subject, and it trusts that th is study will contribute to a c1earer understanding of the future use of information systems.

The publication now before you represents the joint effort of a large number of Dutch experts in this particular area. The Centre is deeply indebted to them for their work.

Dr A.E. Pannenborg
Chairman of the Board

Netherlands Study Centre for Technology Trends