An overview of CARAT: a computer assisted research and analysis tool

The Mosaic Group at the University of Arizona studies the design, implementation, testing, and validation of integrated collaborative research systems (ICRS). The authors describe one project of the Mosaic Group, the computer assisted research and analysis tool (CARAT), a system for creating information systems to support research groups. They categorize CARAT as any-time, any-place groupware. CARAT is a production tool that enables the creation of long-term domain-specific ICRS and organizational memories. Long-term ICRS both support and affect research and its communication. Coupled with organizational memories, ICRS provide vehicles to enhance research productivity and facilitate the distribution and assimilation of research. While collaborative tools such as electronic mail exist everywhere, organizing mechanisms for whole research areas do not. CARAT supports the construction of collaborative research systems and group knowledge structures for long-term research efforts. The background that led to the development of CARAT, the key concepts used in CARAT, and examples from the CARAT implementation are described