Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
2.5.2.2.
Observations in a real situation
The ergonomic approach is based on the activity analysis in a real situation and
places observation at the center of methods [DAN 04], [NAR 95]. In this project,
data collection was carried out by direct observations, following users during their
travels in the public transport network (Figure 2.5).
Figure 2.5.
Examples of observed situations: prepare a journey,
check times, and take the tram [VAL 10a]
The observations were collected by several observers. Specific collecting media
enable the recording of actions carried out, the information sought after, used or
expected, incidents encountered, etc., to be made systematic. Explanations were
asked for in parallel (simultaneous verbalizations) to understand the choices of the
user. At the end of the journey, an interview enabled us to assess the events
encountered.
2.5.3.
The analysis of collections
The collected elements were analyzed in two steps: first of all in the form of a
chronological re-transcription; then from the more specific point of view of
information processing.
2.5.3.1.
Chronological re-transcription
Chronological re-transcription was structured to keep the progression and the
context of journeys by using Quintilien's hexameter (top part of Figure 2.6). In this
project, the hexameter was used as tables to follow the progress of the stages of a
traveler [VAL 06].
