Mansell, G.J. (1991). Application of a Problem-Solving Methodology to Software Usability. Masters thesis, Aston University.
Abstract
A real-world problem is analysed using the contingency theory of Checkland and Jackson & Keys. The problem was presented by a computer manufacturer, and is concerned with the usability of software products. The problem is taken to be soft rather than hard, and occurring in a complex multi-organisational system where the relationships between the systems agents, its customers and the problem-solvers is coercive. A methodology representative of a radical design paradigm is used to structure the problem. The suitability of the chosen methodology, and the radical design paradigm, for the problem context encountered in this research, is evaluated in this thesis. The Jackson & Keys framework, augmented by Jackson to cater for coercive problem contexts, is also evaluated.
| Publication DOI: | https://doi.org/10.48780/publications.aston.ac.uk.00021711 |
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| Additional Information: | Copyright © Mansell, G. J. 1991. G.J. Mansell asserts their moral right to be identified as the author of this thesis. This copy of the thesis has been supplied on condition that anyone who consults it is understood to recognise that its copyright rests with its author and that no quotation from the thesis and no information derived from it may be published without appropriate permission or acknowledgement. If you have discovered material in Aston Publications Explorer which is unlawful e.g. breaches copyright, (either yours or that of a third party) or any other law, including but not limited to those relating to patent, trademark, confidentiality, data protection, obscenity, defamation, libel, then please read our Takedown Policy and contact the service immediately. |
| Institution: | Aston University |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | application,problem-solving methodology,software usability |
| Last Modified: | 15 Apr 2025 09:11 |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Mar 2014 17:20 |
| Completed Date: | 1991-02 |
| Authors: |
Mansell, G.J.
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