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Target task domain, Scope- Introduction
Target task domain is a fundamental dimension for the effective consideration and evaluation of a hypermedia system (Halasz, 1988). Scope within this target task states sizes of expected information and user population. General structure of basic hypermedia model advocated and supported, different systems in terms of target task domain and scope to be developed, by people having different intentions about hypermedia concept. Hypermedia systems have been proposed as a natural mechanism for reflecting the mind (Memex), as the mechanism for storing and retrieving the whole world's literacy (Xanadu), as an augmentation environment for supporting users performing tasks using information (NLS/Augment), as a tool for idea organising and processing (Notecards), as a replacement of traditional writing and reading (Writing Environment) and more recently as an interface to other computer systems (ExperText), as a vehicle for supporting individualised learning (Intermedia), or finally for supporting collaborative software engineering (Neptune).
Hypermedia: a Philosophy rather a Technology
Hypermedia has grown up more as a general philosophy, rather than as a strictly defined computer technology applied to well defined target task domains. The validity of this claim can be assisted, if we consider the very usual practice of applying hypermedia systems to different tasks from the tasks that these systems have been originally developed. Now, in the beginning of design of third generation hypermedia systems, target task domain and scope parameters should increase their gravity. Many people suggest hypermedia should be seen only in context (McKnight, 1991A) (Herrstrom, 1991). Probably, considering target task domain and scope the most appropriate way for studying hypermedia in context.
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