Participatory Design Projects: A Retrospective Look

Abstract

This paper revisits participatory design (PD) projects that were reported at conferences sponsored by IFIP WG9.1 (Computers and Work) over the past decade. Drawing upon both published accounts and recent questionnaire responses from the researchers involved, it examines the factors that have contributed to the strengths and weaknesses of these leading PD projects. While the central notions of PD appear to have stood up well, for various reasons the projects generally have not lead to self-sustaining processes within their host organizations. Suggestions for future projects are offered.