How onlookers shape the use of technology at work

What is it about?

Contrary to what we often think, not only users of (mobile) technology shape how they use technology (at work). Our study shows that bystanders, such as colleagues, or 'onlookers' (who don't use the technology in that situation) also impact the way people use technology. Through what we call 'the onlooker effect', we show that especially small devices such as mobile phones draw attention from an unintended audience of onlookers that starts 'interfering' how people use their devices: for instance start hiding it or explaining what they are doing on it.

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Photo by Noiseporn on Unsplash

Photo by Noiseporn on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The onlooker effect provides a more in-depth explanation for unexpected patterns of technology use emerging in the workplace than previous research has done or than we generally consider. Onlookers are often neglected, but by bringing them in, we show that using technology is also impacting those who don't use it but who are collaborating with the users. In turn, they too impact how we use technology, so we should not ignore them (for instance when we develop technology).