Intelligence Needs Analysis
The number of useful information sources in the world grows by leaps and bounds. It is important that we keep learning how to use them efficiently, but it is also necessary to keep in mind that the individuals who ultimately make use of all this information often have limited capacity to handle this information.
A clear advantage of information needs analysis is that it will give a more realistic view of the company’s or individual’s information needs compared to mere perceptions.
The better the user of any information is able to determine his information needs, the more likely it is that gathering the information will be successful.
Key Statements from the Document
- Despite its acknowledged importance, defining information requirements is perhaps the most neglected phase in the information management process.
- Standardized techniques are more useful in the collection of objective data than of subjective data.
- The advantages of interviewing include understanding, motivation, insight, honesty, and the ability to ask probing questions.
- Survey by questionnaire allows the analyst to obtain data from a large group of people within a limited time.
- Experience is one of the cornerstones especially when building a comprehensive information system for a company.Identifying the correct information needs can prove to be elusive.
- The creation of a set of universal requirements based on organizational goals is especially difficult.
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