Designing the System Structure › User Task Support

User Task Support

A user task is some identifiable activity, often part manual and part computer-supported, that is carried out by the user to achieve a specific result. User tasks represent the human activities involved in carrying out the work of elementary processes.

A user task is typically triggered by a business event and may consist of several subtasks.

A key feature of a task specification is that the user can tell when the task has been completed. That is, each task has a clear beginning and a clear end. It may, however, be subject to interruption.

A user task typically requires several inputs. It may involve a complex arrangement of steps, not just a linear sequence. For example, assume that an order processing task requires an order form as input, and requires the use of a price list during the task. While this task sounds clear, in practice it can be fraught with interruptions and exceptions, such as:

• Poor handwriting or missing information on the form may require contact with the purchaser to clarify details.
• Some purchaser requests may be open.
  (“Let me know when you can deliver the goods.”).
• Some purchaser requests may be impossible and require resolution.
  (“Deliver before 7 a.m.”)
• The total price may exceed the authority of the person processing the order, requiring that person to seek higher authorization.