Towards User-Centered Retrieval Algorithms

Nowadays almost all retrieval algorithms (for text, images, drawings, etc.) are mainly concerned in achieving good system-centered measures, such as precision and recall. However, these systems are used by users, who try to achieve goals through the execution of tasks. To better satisfy the users ’ needs we must involve them in the development process of the retrieval systems. In this paper, we argue that a user-centered approach, where users are included in the development cycle of the overall retrieval system, can lead to improved retrieval algorithms and also to a better user satisfaction while using the system