Web Science and human-computer interaction forming a mutually supportive relationship

Human-computer interaction (HCI) and Web Science are interdisciplinary fields concerned with the intersection of people and technology. HCI, as readers of this magazine well know, is the study of the issues that arise when people encounter computer-based technology, and how this understanding can aid in the design of better technology. HCI covers psychology, cognitive science, ergonomics, sociology, computer science, engineering, business, graphic design, and technical writing. Many of these areas are found in the Web Science butterfly, notably computer science and psychology, which have traditionally been at the heart of HCI. HCI and Web Science clearly share similar application areas and often ask similar questions. HCI designs now influence commercial success, reform education, change family life, and affect the political stability of nations.