Towards memory supporting personal information management tools

Abstract

In this article we discuss re-retrieving personal information objects and relate the task to recovering from lapse(s) in memory. We propose that fundamentally it is lapses in memory that impede users from successfully re-finding the information they need. Our hypothesis is that by learning more about memory lapses in non-computing contexts and how people cope and recover from these lapses, we can better inform the design of PIM tools and improve the user's ability to re-access and re-use objects. We describe a diary study that investigates the everyday memory problems of 25 people from a wide range of backgrounds. Based on the findings, we present a series of principles that we hypothesize will improve the design of personal information management tools. This hypothesis is validated by an evaluation of a tool for managing personal photographs, which was designed with respect to our findings. The evaluation suggests that users' performance when re-finding objects can be improved by building personal information management tools to support characteristics of human memory.

Review on Memory Recall via Image Processing Intelligent Using Social Contacts Based on Eigen Value Implementation

“…Digital Memory Aids Digital memory aid systems basically fell in to two categories depending upon the targeted memory issues. The issues are, Retrospective aid, and prospective aid [3].Retrospective aid basically works with the recall of the past events, previously held events; whereas, the Prospective aid deals with remembering the future events.…”

Yellow Pages: It is All About File Management

“…If the individual is more of a piler (a type of short-term memory) then a spatial organization on the desktop may be his or her choice. [9][10][11] Spring cleaners function under the rule of thumb that out of sight is out of mind. The spring cleaner may either delete old files or add to folders; however, the item(s) are no longer visible, which can reduce the stress of seeing large open files or piles of materials.…”

“…9 The first is semantic memory; for example, when retrieving the item or object from the personal databases it is in a textual format such as consistent folder or file name variation theme. The second is autobiographical memory and suggests one has had a previous experience with the item.…”

“…The third is that of temporal reference or memory indicating that it was recently accessed, for example, last week. 9 Memory problems develop relative to retrospective issues such as forgetting details, past event, or information acquired in the past. 9 A second memory problem is prospective or failure to remember a future task, commitment, appointment, etc.…”

“…9 Memory problems develop relative to retrospective issues such as forgetting details, past event, or information acquired in the past. 9 A second memory problem is prospective or failure to remember a future task, commitment, appointment, etc. 9 The final memory issue is action slips that are "short term memory failures, which cause problems for actions currently being carried out, e.g., forgetting why one went upstairs, or losing one's train of thought, etc."…”