2005 to 2006 - Researching and Developing an Optimised Search tool for the World Wide Web.

The problem this study intended to address was that of the average and majority of computer users being able to find any information they are after in the ever growing mass of information available for them to search through online. In today’s society, especially in western culture, there is access to internet available to nearly everyone.

There are search engines and facilities that if used correctly provide many advanced and suitable search methods to find information, but this report demonstrates how that the majority of users do not use these features. It was found that users’ characteristics and behaviours when searching online are not geared towards using more hidden away advanced features, and it was also found that it is hard to change people’s behaviours. It is shown that users become overwhelmed with information using the search methods that they commonly use; and that through research and investigation, an optimised system and approach enables users to find their information in a quicker and easier fashion than the main search engines currently provide.

The aim of this study was to research into an optimised approach to aid users in the searching and retrieving of information on a computer, focusing on the World Wide Web. Focus was on research and concept and creating prototypes rather than producing a fully coded system.

Thorough research was conducted into existing systems, approaches and user characteristics and behaviours. This was supplemented with a user requirements questionnaire. All the data was analysed and four approaches were short listed as potential solution systems. These were developed into working prototypes and tested. It was found from user testing and feedback that an amalgamation of approaches was desired and the final proposal took this into account by creating a user determinable portal based, ‘multiple search centre’ approach. It was believed that with this approach the functionality required for the majority of users carrying out the majority of their search tasks could be provided in an optimal way.

The final working prototype was thoroughly tested by users from a variety of backgrounds, computer use and computer proficiency. It was clearly seen that the new system resulted in greatly reduced times to complete tasks. The significance of these findings is that it is possible to present the user with a choice of options that whilst presented in a simple and user friendly way, actually provide the user with a powerful search tool. By creating a system that matches users’ behaviours and characteristics it is possible to provide them with an optimised and personalised approach to searching.
 

2005 to 2006 - An Investigation into the Comparison of Autopoietic Theory with Knowledge Management in Organisations

Knowledge Management has been extensively researched over the years, however it is only now that its importance has been realised, particularly by organisations. Many attempts have been made to capture and distribute knowledge throughout an organisation but it has since been realised that this is more problematic than first expected. In each case only a small part of the intended knowledge is actually retained by the recipient, resultantly, means to make the process more efficient need to be addressed. Rather than look at means to capture knowledge, this investigation is concerned with the theory behind knowledge management and how it applies to organisations and those employees who work within them.
 

2005 to 2006 - Development of a Simulation for the QuinSpin System

The ability to quickly and accurately analysis performance in real-time as a game is being played is becoming increasingly important in modern sport. The sport performance information being generated is used in coaches’ decision making processes to influence either individual or team performance. The advance in technology over recent years has benefited sports analysis allowing for quicker, more efficient and more accurate results. This has directly affected the coaching of an athlete as they and their coach are able to assess their abilities and performance using information technology and quickly identify areas that need improvement. The fast pace of the sports industry combined with state of the art research undertaken at top universities and laboratories around the world; make technology and sports analysis an exciting and prospective research area.

This project works closely with a new technology, QuinSpin, to accurately simulate the path of flight of a football. The simulations will represent the path of the ball, its velocity, elevation and spin in a number of 2D views.