Merging multiple perspectives in groupware use: intra- and intergroup conventions

Intergroup cooperation is characterized by groups having different work roles and experiences. When cooperating with a flexible groupware system, groups may face the problem of using conventions that are not congruent. This paper describes the experience of convention use between heterogeneous groups using a groupware system in a real work setting. We discovered that intragroup conventions can transfer from prior work experience and be robust. The method used in PoLrTeam for supporting conventions is compared with other methods for groupware users when heterogeneous groups were involved.

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