The impact of experience on individual performance and workload differences using object-oriented and process-oriented systems analysis techniques

Abstract

Interest in object oriented analysis (OOA) and object oriented design (OOD) has increased over the last several years. Proponents of OOA and OOD have called the shift to these methods "revolutionary" and have cited a number of impressive claims with respect to their use. However, empirical research investigating these claims remains in its infancy. This research study was conducted to test theoretical hypotheses designed to better understand the findings of previous research. The paper presents the results of an empirical study which examined both experienced and novice systems analysts using both procedural and object oriented techniques. This research examined whether experience in using procedural methods helped or hindered performance using OOA and compared procedural and OOA methods on the subjective mental workload induced. A cognitive processing model adapted from DeSanctis (1984) and Huchins, Hollan, and Norman (1985) provided the theoretical framework for this study. Dependent variables include subjective mental workload time to perform task, and attitudinal measures. While some of these dependent variables have been used in past research, we believe this is the first time that subjective mental workload (SMW) has been examined in an IS context. Our results indicate that both novice and experienced subjects demonstrate higher SMW when using OOA. However as a group, novices prefer object oriented techniques and find these techniques easier as compared to experienced subjects.