Designing for Mobile Computing

Matt BallDonna TolsonClemons LibraryUniversity of Virginia

Create a new kind of computing space on the main floor of the undergraduate library to enhance laptop and mobile computing use

The Goal

…and reduce institutionally-provided computers

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• Research (Oct. – Nov.)

• Assess (Dec. – Feb.)

• Design (Mar. – May)

• Purchase & Install (June on)

• Plan services

The Process

Paper Survey

Conducted week of Dec. 10th, 2007

Results

Undergrad 153Grad 5Faculty/Staff 2Other 2TOTAL 162

Paper Survey

Results

Undergrad 153Grad 5Faculty/Staff 2Other 2TOTAL 162

Paper Survey

Results, Question 1

Did you bring your laptop to the library today?If yes, what will it be used for?

Yes 89 No 79

Paper 27 21.25%E-mail 14 11.02Study 13 10.23Notes 12 9.44Web 11 8.66

Paper Survey

Results, Question 2

Will you use a library computer today?If yes, what functions or software will you use?

Yes 100 No 60

Web 40 26.66%Word 31 20.66E-mail 24 16.00Print 23 15.33

Paper Survey

Additional Results

30 respondents indicated that they used both their laptop and a library computer.

18 of those used the library computer to print from.

Paper Survey

Round 1

Brainstorming

Round 1

Brainstorming

Round 1

Brainstorming

Round 2

Brainstorming

Round 2

Brainstorming

Brainstorming

Round 2

Brainstorming

Round 2

Brainstorming

Round 2

Visualization

Visualization

Seating• not large• not wooden• mobile• variety• comfortable• contemporary

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Power

• obvious• convenient• plentiful• an outlet at every seat

Arrangement

• spaciousness• individual space• group space• clear views

Individual computing area

Group computing areas

Mobile computing areas

Computing

• printing from laptops• peripherals for loan• displays• scanners

Food• healthy food• more choices• free water

Security

Security

• not a big concern• for short breaks

Light

• natural• environmental• individually controlled• task lamps

Atmosphere• contemporary feel• not silent• not distracting• art• plants• aquariums• NO TV screens• NO music

Getting ready for fall

• Collaboration with ITC on tech services

• Training staff on laptop & peripheral basics

• Signs & displays

• Testing out peripherals & extras

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Ongoing assessment

• data on use • focus group redux• feedback