Multimedia-applications and CSCW as means of supporting management communication

Based on an office multimedia pilot project, this presentation explores the question if the introduction of integrated broadband services will change the future managerial office environment. The presentation also adresses the possible economic benefits of Office Broadband Communication. Properties of broadband communication and of office broadband applications will be briefly discussed. Possible applications target user groups and functions of OBC used for unstructured tasks - which provide ideal conditions for office (tele)communications will be identified. Features of office jobs which contain mainly unstructured tasks will be summarized and illustrated. Using Germany as an example, data will be compiled, which show the market potential of office jobs with predominantly unstructured tasks. Finally, normative data determining benefits and costs of using OBC systems will be presented and discussed