Duration: 2009 – 2011

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Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ralf Steinmetz | dept. 18, Institute for Data Systems

Prof. Wolfgang Ellermeier, Ph.D. | dept. 3, Institute for Psychology

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Project description:

A human assistant, due to its model of the world, has the capacity to anticipate the meaning of an upcoming interruption for the receiver as well as the impact on the receiver. Technical approaches are faced with the hard problems of artificial intelligence here, whereby their capacity is limited to imitating the detected patterns of the receiver's concept of interruptibility. In this research, the approach of pattern-based interruptibility detection has been realised in a fully operational system. Besides the insights gained, a basis has been created to carry out empirical research in the field of interruptibility science. To what extent this approach can provide real support in the working environment of the knowledge worker will be revealed in the continuing field investigations.

The question remains whether the user-specific concept even represents the optimum of individual interruption management. One can imagine the presence of an expert coach looking over one's shoulder, allowing, postponing or completely rejecting interruptions, contrary to one's own tendencies to act. Whether this approach is superior and technically applicable can be regarded as a starting point for further research.