Surfacing assumptions behind work design for teleworkers using focus groups and gss to enbale task analysis /

Abstract

Compilation of task inventories are used by many organisational researchers, usually using manually facilitated data gathering techniques. The task inventory is useful as a basis for identifying training requirements, documenting changes in work-related task performance, and in job classification studies. In this project the task inventory is used as a means to investigate telework practices amongst a group of knowledge workers. The use of Group [Decision] Support Systems (GSS) technologies is seen as one means of substantially improving the way in which tasks lists are compiled and authenticated. This application of a GSS is illustrated by reporting the results of fieldwork involving knowledge workers. The process gains are highlighted, and insight into the development of a task list as the basis for a task inventory is provided