Lucy Suchman, an expert on human-machine interaction, discusses her book 'Human-Machine Reconfigurations' which questions the assumptions about user behavior in technology. Topics include reconfiguring human-machine interface, the power of relationships in human-machine interaction, challenges of adopting technology in non-tech companies, developing perceptual capabilities in different cultures, and the importance of context and engaging with technology.
Human actions should not be solely based on following plans in human-machine interactions.
Consider the contextual aspects and co-construction of realities in human-machine interactions.
Reconceptualize agency to include the active role of non-human entities in generating actions and possibilities in design decisions.
Deep dives
Focus on the book and its chapters
The podcast episode discusses a book called Human Machine Reconfigurations by Lucy Suchman. The guest, Barton, who works in the Chief Data Office at Deutsche Bank, selected the reading for the discussion. The chapters discussed include the introduction, chapter 5 about plans, chapter 6 about situated actions, and chapter 15 about reconfigurations. The book explores the agencies and capacities at the human-machine interface and proposes ways to reconfigure these relationships. Suchman's work emphasizes the importance of considering the contextual aspects of human-machine interaction and the co-construction of realities through situated actions.
Examining the situated action model
The podcast dives into the concept of the situated action model discussed in the book. This model highlights how individuals reconfigure technology or computational objects to suit their needs, such as when a person navigates a supermarket and selects specific products they are interested in. Suchman argues against the idea that technology is objective or deterministic, emphasizing the importance of co-construction and the context in which human-machine interactions occur. By understanding the situated action model, organizations can better design systems that consider the real-time contingencies and the ways in which technology and humans mutually shape each other's behavior and capabilities.
Exploring the implications for design and agency
The podcast episode raises the implications of Suchman's work for design practices and the agency of non-human objects. Suchman's perspective urges designers to consider the local production of meaningful action and to examine how technology, such as PowerPoint slide decks, influences and enables certain actions and possibilities. By reconceptualizing agency as relational and co-constitutive, the book challenges the traditional view that only humans have agency. It expands the notion of agency to include the active role of non-human entities in generating actions and possibilities. This understanding can lead to better design decisions and improved human-machine interactions within organizations.
Unintended consequences of technology
The podcast episode discusses the unintended consequences of technology. It highlights that while the intention of technological systems is to improve efficiency and productivity, there are often unforeseen interactions and effects that arise. Examples such as the NASDAQ flash crash and technical difficulties in virtual meetings are mentioned. The speaker emphasizes the acceptance of these downsides as part of the agential effect of technology. It also touches on the importance of understanding the human agency and impact on the interactions within technological systems.
The role of context in technology design
The podcast episode examines the role of context in technology design. It emphasizes that understanding the user's context is crucial in developing effective technological solutions. The speaker cites examples from their industry experience, highlighting how different contexts can lead to varying results despite using the same technology. The discussion points out that perception and experience play a vital role in technology adoption and effective usage. The legacy of the book discussed in the episode is seen as promoting a human-centered and user-centered approach to design, emphasizing the significance of engaging with users to gain insights and create user-friendly systems.
Please tune in for Episode 22 where we are joined by the fascinating Dr Barton Friedland to discuss Lucy Suchman’s book “Human-Machine Reconfigurations: Plans and Situated Action” (2007). In it, she studied the interaction of humans with a state-of-art photocopier. Interestingly, Suchman's studies show that interaction problems are mostly due to the underpinning assumptions about users’ behaviour. More specifically, her work questions the idea that human actions are merely based on the following of plans!
Overall, this is a must-read for anyone interested in technology, humanism and post(trans)-humanism, as well as more practical issues of technology adaptation and dissemination!
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