This volume introduces groupware, and discusses the way that business can apply computer-supported co-operative working to gain competitive advantage. Groupware products allow people to work effectively in teams, sharing information across a company. The remarkable benefits that groupware can provide are reflected in the way the market for these products is expanding. According to some consultants, a market that was worth just $11 million in 1991 will be worth up to $2 billion in 1995 This explosion has caused widespread confusion among senior managers and IT professionals. There are only few people who understand the concepts behind groupware and the broad range of benefits they bring. This book remedies that situation by providing a clear definition of groupware, and gives detailed procedures that can be followed to achieve a successful groupware implementation. Considerable emphasis is given to organizational changes required, and methods for measuring the characteristics of work groups are described. Examples of groupware projects are also given.
