Investigating the Human Factor in Current Information Technology

This research paper explores the human factor in information technology, focusing on the use of anthropomorphic characters in word processors and their associated disadvantages, such as user distraction, overestimation of computer capabilities, and cultural insensitivity. It contrasts this design with the social interface product, developed by Microsoft, which offers advantages like reduced disruptions, multilingual support, and user control. The paper concludes that while anthropomorphism has drawbacks, the social interface product provides a more user-friendly and efficient alternative. Desklib provides access to this and other solved assignments for students.

Human Factor in Information Technology 1
RESEARCH PAPER ON THE HUMAN FACTOR IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
A Research Paper on Human Factor By
Student’s Name
Name of the Professor
Institutional Affiliation
City/State
Year/Month/Day

Human Factor in Information Technology 2
INTRODUCTION
This research paper is a discussion on a popular word processor which initially
contained anthropomorphic character to help users when working on a program. There is
need to describe the disadvantages associated with this design and also make a
recommendation of a different design by listing its advantages during its implementation.
Disadvantages
The anthropomorphism in most cases deceives the users since it lets the user imagine
that the computer has all the capacities of a human being hence overestimating the abilities of
an anthropomorphism. It is possible that anthropomorphism cannot be turned off. In such
instances, since the user will not have control over them, it becomes more irritating and may
lead to frustrations. The users may be distracted due to its interruptions, in which they may
not be interested in. An anthropomorphism can also create some cultural differences like the
language. The language it is using may vary with the language of the users at some places.
This may lead to inconveniences to the users.
Alternative Design
Due to the disadvantages of the anthropomorphism stated above, the design which has
been implemented to replace the anthropomorphism is the social interface product. This word
processor design was developed by the Microsoft Company as a result of dissatisfaction with
the anthropomorphism design. Some of the advantages of the social interface product include
fewer disruptions on the user hence no wastage of time. This design also incorporates diverse
languages which have made it convenient for use by many languages globally. The social
interface product can also be turned off by the user when not in use hence the user has control
over it.

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Conclusion
Some of the disadvantages of an anthropomorphism include distraction, waste of
time, cannot be turned off by the user, overestimation by the user, and creates cultural
indifference. The design which has been implemented to replace the anthropomorphism is the
social interface product.

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