courtesy of Salamanca Arts Centre

What is an information need? 

Oh information. We can't do anything these days without you. But where should you start when you need to gather information, particularly if you are considering a different hobby, pursuing your passion project, or want to start your own business? We can't do any of these without gathering info first to see if it might be a good fit for us right? When making new and big decisions, it always helps to research it first before jumping in.

An information need is defined as "an individual or group's desire to locate and obtain information to satisfy a conscious or unconscious need." You could also replace need with goal if you want :)

Defining your information need 

So how do you go about knowing which information you need to help you make your decision? Write out your information need or goal.

I've pulled out three different things to look at when you decide you want to pursue something new and want to research it.

1. What is your goal?

Any information you look for won't really help you unless you have a clear goal in mind for how the information will help you. For what purpose do you want this information? For example, my goal is to write a novel.

2. Look for the problems and questions and list them.

Use these problems to find which information you really need to get started. As you start looking for information, your questions might change and that's okay. For my writing example, I had no clue how to write characters, plot, or suspense. And I knew I needed to research these further.

3. Write (or type) your goals and problems and keep them with you as you begin searching for the answers and resources you'll need.

You may find that other goals and problems may pop up, which is okay.

By defining your goals, problems, and questions early on, you can begin to create an information strategy that will help you in whatever decisions you want to make.

Thank you for reading. Until next time :)
Melissa

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