Document-centric collaborative spaces for increased traceability in knowledge-intensive processes

Today´s spectrum of workflow to computer supported cooperative work (CSCW) tools provide a continuum of support ranging from process-driven to ad-hoc user-interaction. Depending on the position within this continuum, tools provide process visibility and traceability at the expense of flexibility. Here we present an architecture integrated within Microsoft Office and the Windows Shell, called ldquoMySightrdquo, that supports knowledge-intensive work using structured collaboration spaces. The collaboration spaces form a conceptual layer on heterogeneous systems. These spaces also provide the knowledge workers with flexibility to move in and out of spaces while at the same time maintaining the life-cycle visibility and traceability as a side effect. The architecture uses the Open XML standard supported by Microsoft(c) Office. The benefits of the tool are illustrated using a knowledge-intensive process from industry for managing architecture and technology changes, and impact to the operations of the installed IT systems.