Understanding technology used by families

'Technology probes' are pieces of prototype technology with simple, fully-functional features, designed to be unfinished and open-ended in use. They collect data on their usage and are intended to get users thinking about novel kinds of technologies that could be of use. Technology probes are good at:

a) examining in-context usage of a product before it is finished,
b) provoking new design ideas from in-context usage,
c) understanding implementation issues and circumstances separate from the technology which affect it's usage,
d) viewing long term usage and adaption to and of the product,
e) and determining how particular social contexts affect usage.

Two different types of tech probes are investigated: one is a pubic, short-messaging service for families, the other focuses on sharing short video snapshots between family members.

This is an interesting technique for understanding in-context device usage and the social reasons behind technology usage.

Technology Probes: Inspiring Design for and with Families, 2003
Hilary Hutchinson et al.
[Full-text pdf]