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Chapter 9 Beyond Search: A Technology Probe Investigation

Web Search Engine Research

ISBN: 978-1-78052-636-2, eISBN: 978-1-78052-637-9

Publication date: 10 February 2012

Abstract

Purpose — We assert that researchers developing new web interaction tools should consider an array of user motives beyond query-based information retrieval. This chapter reports on two probes used to investigate user activities that go beyond search as traditionally conceived.

Design/methodology — This chapter reviews research on user experiences with search engines and general web use. It then describes the design and case study of cards and pebbles, two search engine-based probes developed to help elicit new concepts for web-based experiences.

Findings — Participants reflect on their experiences with the probes and offer ideas regarding how to incrementally shift the traditional search paradigm and conceive of the web in new ways.

Implications/value — This investigation serves as a starting point by offering criteria that should be considered when designing new ‘beyond search’ tools.

Keywords

Citation

Bryant, E.M., Harper, R. and Gosset, P. (2012), "Chapter 9 Beyond Search: A Technology Probe Investigation", Lewandowski, D. (Ed.) Web Search Engine Research (Library and Information Science, Vol. 4), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 227-250. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1876-0562(2012)002012a011

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited