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
• 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
Seating• not large• not wooden• mobile• variety• comfortable• contemporary
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
34
Ongoing assessment
• data on use • focus group redux• feedback