%M J.UXWORLD.85.11.11.75
%T USENET: Doing Research on the Network
%A Perlman, Gary
%J UNIX/World
%D 1985
%V 11
%N 11
%P 75-81
%K computer-supported cooperative work, user interfaces
%Y Gathering Simple Information
Gathering Strategic Information
Spying on the Net
Net Surveys
Group Program Construction
Conferences
Conclusion
Acknowledgements
References (4)
%X USENET is a UNIX-based computer system network used for distributing news. 
It is an informal but extensive medium for communication of ideas and sharing
of information.  In this paper, I recount some research experiences with
computer network bulletin boards, in this case, UNIX netnews.  I discuss cases
where netnews has been used for gathering simple information, marketing
information, corporate espionage intelligence, public opinion surveys, for
group program construction, and for netconferencing. I conclude that networks
are an effective way to do new forms of research not possible using other
media.

%M J.BRMIC.17.2.203
%T Electronic Surveys
%A Perlman, Gary
%J Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, and Computers
%D 1985
%V 17
%N 2
%P 203-205
%K statistical computing, methods
%Y An Electronic Survey Administration System
    Construction
    Presentation
    Distribution and Collection
Design and Implementation
Concluding Remarks
    Availability
    Enhancements
    Limitations
        Experience
        Resources
        Confidentiality
References
%X A programming language and computer system for the design, administration,
and distribution of surveys are described.  A special-purpose programming
language allows the concise definition of a survey.  The definition is passed
to a program generator that creates a program for presenting questions and
gathering answers. Conventions for distribution and collection of surveys are
discussed.  The system reduces many of the problems associated with conducting
a survey.

%M J.CACM.28.3.300
%T Designing for usability: key principles and what designers think
%A Gould, John D.
%A Lewis, Clayton
%J Communications of the ACM
%D 1985
%V 28
%N 3
%P 300-311
%W http://doi.acm.org/10.1145/3166.3170
%X This article is both theoretical and empirical. Theoretically, it describes
three principles of system design which we believe must be followed to produce
a useful and easy to use computer system. These principles are: early and
continual focus on users; empirical measurement of usage; and iterative design
whereby the system (simulated, prototype, and real) is modified, tested,
modified again, tested again, and the cycle is repeated again and again. This
approach is contrasted to other principled design approaches, for example, get
it right the first time, reliance on design guidelines. Empirically, the
article presents data which show that our design principles are not always
intuitive to designers; identifies the arguments which designers often offer
for not using these principles -- and answers them; and provides an example in
which our principles have been used successfully.