Support Cooperation in Small Group Context Using WWW Applications

Abstract This research looks into the use of WWW applications for cooperation and support within a small group context. Formal and informal cooperative work between individuals in a small academic department at a local university were identified and analyzed. Useful applications that were widely available on the WWW were modified to result in a prototype system used to support both formal and informal cooperative work within the Department. This study looked into the ways that small groups cooperate without CSCW. CSCW was then introduced, taking into account the contextual capabilities and limitations. The results of the study should benefit CSCW design for small groups.