Like a modern society, the Internet is characterised by cultural multiplicity. Communication processes are a complex phenomenon. Central to this phe­nomenon we find that interpretation by the receiver/user is a key aspect. In the light of this we argue that major research about the target group is essential in order to create an interface-environment where the receiver/user can make sense of and benefit from the message, which lies within the homepage.

In our understanding, the awareness of the complexity of modern society, of the Internet as a media and in the communication-process, we find a need for new theoretical research within HCI. We observe a need to reform the models of analytical and methodological work and more intensely include the cultural background of the user within the research and practice of HCI.

We suggest that functionality, content and graphic-aesthetic design are aspects of relevance which should be related to the users conceptions and cultural pref­erences, and incorporated in the development of usable websites.

In order to incorporate the cultural heterogeneity and the cultural interpretative perspective we aim to extend usability as a term, we combine knowledge from phenomenology, urban-sociology, communication theory, reception theory and design theory. Our hope is by positive means to contribute to an interdisci­plinary expansion of traditional HCI and its understanding of usability.

download specialet: "Det kulturelle møde mellem bruger og hjemmeside - brugervenlighed i et bredere perspektiv" i pdf

Specialet er skrevet af Mette Tandrup, Chr. Viktor Rasmussen og Hanne Beier Sørensen og afleveret på IT-højskolen.