Toward Empirical, Practicable, Comprehensive Task Taxonomy

Abstract

Considerable interest has developed in task taxonomy. Rational approaches are too simple. Empirical classifications based on performance will ultimately be forthcoming. A more readily available technique is described and illustrated where judgments of task verbs serve as data which are intercorrelated and factor-analyzed. In the study, four broad task dimensions were found: cognitive, social, procedural, and physical. Major problems in task taxonomy include the use of job-oriented rather than worker-oriented verbs and the inability to define the level of a task. A well-developed task taxonomy would aid both system designers and researchers on task performance.