The relation of design to human concerns (software design)

An example of a conceptual map created in the course of the research and development of computer systems expressly designed for groups is presented. Such a map or framework of the terrain the users of the proposed designs live with does not directly lead to a definitive design, but it is suggestive. It can offer various perspectives and helps designers focus on what is relevant in this area, how they interact, what might be changeable, and what needs to be preserved. This kind of map can become quite useful in the early stages of design of technologies to support groups of people, popularly known as Groupware.<>