Coordination and Disorder

Session 5 - Coordination

Flores and Winograd introduce an interesting twist to the term ‘technology’ when describing its uses in modern society. While we generally would describe them as a design of physical tools to help us to build, design or execute our jobs effectively, they instead describe it as a “design of practices and possibilities to be realized through artifacts”. The perception that computer technology simply duplicates human effort is incorrect. Computer technology encompasses the design of new practices and in turn opens a whole new realm of possibilities of practices that coordinates our efforts.

In the given scenario, video conferencing tools have become a standard business practice of communication. This cross geographical communication tool which is instantaneous, cost-effective and reliable is one of the new practices that has been adopted through the development of computer technology. In preparation of a video conference, a number of important details will have to be taken into consideration. Video conferencing allows for oral reporting of decisions to be made between individuals but, it also provides an opportunity to engage the group through a visual connection. The lighting conditions of the room in which the conference is held, is as important as ensuring that the auditory equipment is fully functional.

“Organizations are structures for the social coordination of action, generated in conversations based on requests and promises”(Flores and Winograd, 1988). No action can take place without an initial request, and this concept should be adopted by all businesses when conducting any meetings. Before any meeting, the distribution of printed documents detailing the agenda, structure and time limitation of the meeting, will ensure that there is a clear understanding of the issues that the meeting will address. The printed documentation will also ensure no difference in understanding and interpretation of the message that may arise from cultural and social differences.

The outcome of every meeting will ensure that all issues addressed in the agenda have been tackled or discussed to some extent. The outcome should not only include a shared understanding of each individual’s tasks in the organization, but also a clear comprehension of the common goal of the employees as a single entity. To address these issues is to “open the way to diagnosing breakdowns, increasing effectiveness, and in general designing the workplace as an effective healthy environment.”