Whiteboard‐based interface for collaboration in e‐manufacturing environment

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop an environment where participants share a virtual workspace, which allows the participants to collaborate on a physical model as well as a digital model in a natural manner as if they were in a face‐to‐face meeting.

Design/methodology/approach

The idea of this study was designed and implemented as BOCOLLA system based on CELAVIS system. BOCOLLA system enables users to manipulate computer software on a conventional whiteboard using a marker pen during video conference with CELAVIS system.

Findings

BOCOLLA system shows the feasibility of the non‐IT interface with a conventional whiteboard as an IT‐based interface which enables telematic operation for video conferences.

Research limitations/implications

Digital models plays a critical role in e‐manufacturing, but their physical models would enhance the collaboration in e‐manufacturing if it could be shared among the collaboration members over the network.

Practical implications

The study identifies the potential of conventional tools as an interface to the innovative technologies.

Originality/value

Using a physical model sharing example, this paper shows the feasibility of BOCOLLA to the application of e‐manufacturing.

Citation

Ito, T. (2007), "Whiteboard‐based interface for collaboration in e‐manufacturing environment", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 18 No. 1, pp. 25-35. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410380710717625