Gender HCI: What About the Software?

Abstract

We use the term gender HCI (human-computer interaction) to refer to research into how software relates to gender differences. Our particular focus is on how gender-neutral software works, not on gender-oriented content. Specifically, we have concentrated on software aimed at supporting everyday users doing problem solving. Several of the hypotheses we developed in the first step of our investigative method predict that in a software environment with problem-solving features, gender differences will have a significant impact on the adoption and use of these features, due at least in part to differences related to risk perception and confidence. To maintain its creative edge, an organization must encourage a diversity of ideas