Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
tions. It is a nonlinear process, not an orderly moving from research to decision,
but instead a set of interconnections and feedback. It is closer to the system per-
spective that is highlighted as a fundamental conceptual framework for modeling
information transfer as described in Chapter 4.
The models described above reinforce the importance of environmental issues
that have an impact on utilization. The reader may wish to review the section “The
Environmental Context of Society” in Chapter 2. These variables influence us as
individuals and groups as well as all of the information transfer processes: creation,
production, dissemination, diffusion, organization, and utilization of information and
knowledge.
The environmental and social context includes all of the following: culture, phys-
ical geography, political structure, legislation and regulations, the economic sys-
tem, technology, and information policy. Legislation, regulations, and information
policy can help or hinder effective utilization. For example, copyright, which safe-
guards the rights of authors and creators of information and knowledge, must be
considered when implementing a copyrighted document so that the rights of the
author are safeguarded. Furthermore, regulations by a legislative body, organiza-
tion, or private enterprise may block or shape the utilization of knowledge. For ex-
ample, nonpartisan organizations like the League of Women Voters might refuse
to diffuse or otherwise utilize information disseminated by a political party.
Another factor in utilization is the use of technology. It's safe to say that all of
us have attended presentations that were hindered by faulty technology or lack of
knowhow by the presenter. One of the authors recently was deprived of phone and
Internet service because his provider, an international telecommunications com-
pany, suffered a technical malfunction, and his “bundle” of services was short-cir-
cuited for a day.
All of the environmental factors together account for the fragility of diffusion and
utilization. Technology especially is a vital but fragile component of the global in-
formation infrastructure, and malfunctions are common and must be anticipated.
Cell phones, Internet connections, television signals, and networks are subject to
technical malfunctions and weather conditions. A strong wind or violent thunder-
storm can interrupt satellite transmission for minutes and perhaps hours. Although
technology is a boon to diffusion and utilization, the wise information professional
plans for a variety of delivery modes when relying on technology.
Nevertheless, technology provides the opportunity for the information profes-
sional to diagnose a client's information needs and to apply appropriate technology
to address those needs. It is essential that an information professional develops a
close working relationship with clients, to understand their information needs and
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