Mapping the "How" of collaborative action: Research methods for studying contemporary sociotechnical processes

Abstract

Process has been a concern since the beginning of CSCW. Developments in sociotechnical landscapes raise new challenges for studying processes (e.g., massive online communities bringing together vast crowds; Big Data technologies connecting many through the flow of data). This re-opens questions about how we study, document, conceptualize, and design to support processes in complex, contemporary sociotechnical systems. This one-day workshop will bring together researchers to discuss the CSCW community's unique focus and methodological toolkit for studying process and workflow; provide a collaborative space for the improvement and extension of research projects within this space; and catalyze a network of scholars with expertise and interest in addressing challenging methodological questions around studying process in contemporary, sociotechnical systems.