Challenges and opportunities for evaluating intelligent environments
Gilbert Cockton · Northumbria Research Link (Northumbria University) · 2006
Publications on evaluation methods for intelligent environments (IEs) have only begun to appear regularly in the last few years [42]. At the same time, HCI has renewed interest on evaluation methods, with improved assessment after the ‘Damaged Merchandise’ crisis. Evaluation methods for IEs can and should benefit from improvements within mainstream HCI. Understandings of the impact of direct support for human activities during evaluation reduce the seemingly insurmountable challenges associated with evaluating IEs. In addition, a focus on achieved value suggests particular opportunities for self instrumentation in IEs. A range of opportunities for innovative IE evaluation methods could improve support for design that demonstrably incorporates the thoughtful and insightful use of computer technology to improve and enrich everyday life.