An approach to the value of information : effectiveness and productivity of information use in research work.

The economics and value of information have been analysed
in this study. Efforts have been made to deepen our
understanding of the value of information in information
work. The literature of information science and economics
were reviewed but suitable ready-to-use methods and
techniques for the assessment of the value of information
in the research work tasks were not found. A dual approach
to the value of information was developed from the
theoretical analyses and later tested in empirical studies:
(1) The exchange value of information products, services,
channels and systems should be studied using economic
methods. (2) The value-in-use of information should be
studied using the cognitive approach which takes the user,
the use and the effects of use of information into
consideration. The approach was used in the empirical
studies in a research organization. A model was developed
for optimizing the value of information for research work.
The following 'management actions' are needed: (1) ensure
that results of research are 'published'; (2) ensure that
there is a rich information environment for research; (3)
encourage joint efforts in information seeking and use; (4)
ensure that information found is actually put to use; (5)
improve the seeking of methodological information; and (6)
ensure that the time used for information seeking and use
is appropriate to the project. Data for the model have to
be collected in respect of the present state of affairs
under investigation concerning each of the above actions.