Practice theory & the foundations of digital document encoding

Abstract

Designing digital documents in complex, changing information environments presents a number of challenges for both academics and practitioners. In particular, a number of contradictory views about the nature of digital documents raise questions about what factors shape the task of document encoding. To date there have been few studies that explore the relationship between human document encoders and the documents they produce, where the process of documentation embedded in encoding is the focus. In this paper we argue that to support and improve the processes of digital document development it is essential that we gain a clearer understanding of context and the situated, inter-subjective nature of human engagement in documentary practice. We present a methodology for understanding such documentary practices, which considers digital representation through the lens of practice theory and presents a conceptual framework for understanding the complex and changing dimensions of document encoding that are challenging both research and practice.

A sustainable design fiction

“…For example, Wulf et al [2011] propose to use the perspective of practice theory as a way to focus on transformative and innovative aspects of information and communications technology artifacts in computer-supported cooperative work research. Other examples include using practice theory as a way to understand discursive relationships between people and artifacts in the context of documentary practice [Scifleet and Williams 2009] and creating tools to encourage design stakeholders to use practices as units of analysis in the design process [Cabrera et al 2008]. In these examples, practice theory is used either as a way to broaden a perspective on a situation or to embrace the evolving and changing nature of practices.…”