A manifesto ‐ regarding the future of transaction log analysis

Since the late 1970s TLA has maintained its role as the most dependable method for unobtrusive observation of IR system use, although the analysis of transaction logs remains a labor‐intensive practice. The difficult nature of TLA has undoubtedly hampered interest in its development and refinement into a useful method for analyzing user interaction with online systems. However, the means to realize the full potential of this powerful tool are now within the realm of computing and information science research. The goal of this paper is to create an increased awareness of TLA and research efforts using TLA methodologies.