Analysing the factors affecting users in intelligent pervasive spaces

Recent advancements in pervasive computing allow embedded Information Communication Technology (ICT) systems to collect information and apply it in ways that result in new advanced services. In order to provide these services, a vast number of sensors are used to collect large levels of data pervasively. While successful in many environments, in some situations, monitoring technologies have been known to cause undesirable effects, such as increases in stress in those being observed. With an increase in the coverage of the data collection in pervasive spaces, we anticipate an increase in the impact of such effects. To date, the use of this monitoring technology and its effect on human behaviour have not been thoroughly investigated, meaning future system designs may result in (preventable) undesirable effects. This article analyses a series of recurring factors, identified in the literature and believed to influence occupant behaviour, from both physical and social perspectives. The use of such factors, and their relationships, as a means of analysing and comparing monitoring systems is also described. These factors/concepts can be linked to existing predictive behavioural models, and when empirical evidence is collected, a tool for predicting, and therefore preventing, the undesirable effects of this new technology may be possible.