Title: WearIT@work: a wearable computing solution for knowledge-based development

Authors: Edna Pasher, Zvika Popper, Hadas Raz, Michael Lawo

Addresses: 35 Rofe Hamachtarot St., Tel Aviv 69372, Israel. ' 35 Rofe Hamachtarot St., Tel Aviv 69372, Israel. ' 35 Rofe Hamachtarot St., Tel Aviv 69372, Israel. ' Center for Computing Technologies (TZI), Universitaet Bremen, P.O. Box 33-04-40, D-28334 Bremen, Germany; D-28359 Bremen, Am Fallturm 1, Entrance E, Room 1.59, Germany

Abstract: This paper describes a project, funded by the European Union, which is focused on research and development of wearable computing in seven different work environments. One scenario that was chosen for a more detailed description was the production scenario, in which blue collar workers were empowered by advanced technology proved to be a good example for the potential of knowledge-based development even on the production floor. Another aspect that is highlighted here is the fact that this large project was conducted with a full engagement of the end-users – a methodology named: |user centred design| (UCD) or a |living laboratory|. Another important aspect for knowledge-based development is the notion that change can happen only if all stakeholders are involved.

Keywords: wearable computing; innovation; user centred design; UCD; living labs; knowledge cities; empowering workers; knowledge-based development; blue collar workers; living laboratory; employee empowerment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKBD.2010.038043

International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development, 2010 Vol.1 No.4, pp.346 - 360

Published online: 13 Jan 2011 *

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