How users matter : The co-construction of users and technologies

摘要: Users have become an integral part of technology studies. The essays in this volume look at the creative capacity users to shape all phases, from design implementation. Using a variety theoretical approaches, including feminist focus on and use (in place traditional emphasis men machines), concepts semiotics, cultural studies view consumption as activity, these examine what do with and, turn, does users. contributors consider how consume, modify, domesticate, design, reconfigure, resist technological development -- are defined transformed by technology. I show that resistance non-use can be crucial factor eventual modification improvement technology; examples considered include introduction telephone into rural America influence non-users Internet. II advocacy groups many kinds they represent, particularly context health care clinical testing. III role different phases testing, selling Included here is enlightening account one company's process for men's women's shavers, which resulted "Ladyshave" assumed technophobes. Taken together, How Matter any understanding must take consideration multiplicity roles play conventional distinction between producers largely artificial.