Difference between revisions of "Convivial Systems"

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(From convivial tools to convivial systems)
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==Convivial service systems==
 
==Convivial service systems==
The theory of convivial tools focuses on the individual tool or appliance, whether physical (such as a washing machine) or immaterial (such as a software program). Thus one can draw up a list of characteristics of the convivial tool, describing the desired functionalities of the individual tool. Such an individual tool can be considered to be a product.
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The theory of convivial tools focuses on the individual tool or appliance, whether physical (such as a washing machine) or immaterial (such as a software program). Thus one can draw up a list of [http://convivialtools.net/index.php?title=Convivial_Tool_Characteristics characteristics of the convivial tool], describing the desired functionalities of the individual tool. Such an individual tool can be considered to be a '''product'''.
  
 
When we move from the individual tool to an ensemble of interrelated techniques, however, the focus is no longer on a single element that can be isolated from its surroundings, but on a complex technical system. From the point of view of its usefulness to the user, the technical system offers a service. Thus while the individual tool or appliance is to be considered a product, the technical system is to be considered a service. When such a service operates according to principles similar to those embodied in the convivial tool, it can be called a convivial service system.
 
When we move from the individual tool to an ensemble of interrelated techniques, however, the focus is no longer on a single element that can be isolated from its surroundings, but on a complex technical system. From the point of view of its usefulness to the user, the technical system offers a service. Thus while the individual tool or appliance is to be considered a product, the technical system is to be considered a service. When such a service operates according to principles similar to those embodied in the convivial tool, it can be called a convivial service system.

Revision as of 21:20, 10 January 2011