Mobile computing remains a relatively new phenomenon, and therefore is mostly untested in society. Mobile computing has the potential to change the way businesses operate and people communicate. Human Computer Interaction (HCI) presents new challenges, must like the introduction and widespread adoption of the internet. It is taken for granted that the most common way to access the Internet will soon be through mobile devices and that everyone, even those who never wanted to use a computer, will embrace the use of mobile services. However, if HCI aspects of mobile technologies are not properly addressed, the above mentioned scenario is not so likely to come true. Users (especially novice ones) will not enthusiastically adopt mobile computing devices if we are not able to prevent the pains and complexities of interacting through very limited input and output facilities. Mobile services will not be successful if we do not understand mobile users and design for their contexts, which are very different from the ones traditionally studied in HCI. (Chittaro, 2004).
Society stands to impact significantly from advances in mobile computing. Improved efficiency in business may see less time spent working, with more time for leisure. In other professions, this may see more opportunities to travel, with businesses based nationally and globally. The world will potentially communicate mainly in an online environment, changing the way we interact and engage. The theory of anywhere, anytime connection may mean we are never un-contactable, adjusting our public and private lives. Mobile computing presents new challenges as well as new advantages, and must be tailored to suit the needs of the individual and organization.
Mobile computing faces many challenges on the path the mass acceptance and use. The initial costs of setup and maintenance prevent many businesses from making the change. McKimmy (2003) asserts wireless networking setup, access restrictions, power supply, and file storage are all issues to contend with, with careful planning required for maintenance and piloting. Power is a critical issue with laptops, and may impair the ease of use in mobile computing.
Security is another major challenge in mobile computing, that is, controlling access to your network. “Mis-configured wireless networks present a security hazard. Anyone with a wireless computer could have full access to your LAN unless restrictions are implemented� (McKimmy, 2003). This can be prevented by establishing MAC (Message Authentication Code) addresses, a unique number that identifies its NIC. Unknown computers can then be denied access if their MAC address is not on an authorised list. Other alternatives such as a virtual private network (VPN) also exist.
Other limitations remain in relation to connection speeds and access points. WiFi has seen some success, however it is hoped that the introduction of WiMax will see a greater number of users adopt mobile computing practices. Norman (The Invisible Computer) in Goldstein, Nyberg and Anneroth (2003) suggests that getting each tool to perform effectively presents yet another challenge. “In order to ensure ‘good enough’ usability, each tool should be tailored to fit the task amd the interface should be as transparent as possible to the user.
Chittaro, L. 2004. HCI aspects of mobile devices and services. Personal and Ubiquitous Computing 8: 69-70. http://springerlink.metapress.com/media/43WRYPQXMM7XAXJLKQ5R/Contributions/H/1/K/0/H1K0AHXHTV17A22W.pdf (accessed October 13, 2004).
Goldstein, M; M. Nyberg and M. Anneroth. 2003. Providing proper affordances when transferring source metaphors from information appliances to a 3G mobile multipurpose handset. Personal and Ubiquitous Computing 7: 372-380. http://springerlink.metapress. com/media/HA03EAWTQNCYXPM4EK0J/Contributions/8/X/Y/9/8XY92NVFPYXHXH08.pdf (accessed October 13, 2004).
McKimmy, P.B. 2003. Wireless mobile instructional labs: Issues and opportunities. International Journal of Instructional Media, 30 (1) :111. (accessed August 11, 2004 from ProQuest: multiple databases).
Emma Hanson 08:34, 29 Oct 2004 (EST)
