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September 10, 2007

Paper - Digital Display Cage Match

Thanks to Gary at ResourceShelf for pointing to this one:

New Research: Reading Revisited: Evaluating the Usability of Digital Display Surfaces for Active Reading Tasks

Reading Revisited: Evaluating the Usability of Digital Display Surfaces for Active Reading Tasks

by Meredith Ringel Morris; A.J. Brush; Brian Meyers (Microsoft Research)

A fascinating and important read for everyone in the info, education, and related industries.

"A number of studies have shown that paper holds several advantages over computers for reading tasks. However, these studies were carried out several years ago, and since that time computerized reading technology has advanced in many areas. We revisit the issue of reading in the workplace, comparing paper use to state-of-the-art hardware and software. In particular, we studied how knowledge workers perform reading tasks in four conditions: (1) using paper, (2) using a dual-monitor desktop system, (3) using a pen-enabled horizontal display surface, and (4) using multiple tablet computers. We discuss our findings, noting the strengths and shortcomings of each configuration. Based on these findings, we propose design guidelines for hybrid horizontal + vertical systems that support active reading tasks."

Direct to Full Text (8 pages; PDF)

It's a great contribution to the ongoing debate about the future of paper and digital displays.

Stephen

Posted by stephen at September 10, 2007 11:24 AM

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Posted by: Kevan Paul at September 10, 2007 5:46 PM

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