How do you use information behavior models to design effective information systems or services?

1 Wilson's Model of Information Behavior

Wilson's model is one of the most comprehensive and influential models of information behavior. It identifies six main stages of information seeking: initiating, chaining, browsing, differentiating, monitoring, and extracting. It also considers the factors that affect each stage, such as psychological, social, environmental, and intervening variables. You can use Wilson's model to design information systems or services that support the different stages and factors of information seeking, and help users overcome the barriers and risks they may encounter.

2 Dervin's Sense-Making Model

Dervin's sense-making model is based on the idea that people use information to bridge the gaps between their current situation and their desired outcome. It focuses on the cognitive and emotional aspects of information behavior, and how people construct meaning from information. It proposes three main components of sense-making: situation, gap, and outcome. You can use Dervin's model to design information systems or services that help users define their situation, identify their gaps, and achieve their outcomes, and provide them with relevant, reliable, and accessible information.

3 Kuhlthau's Information Search Process Model

Kuhlthau's information search process model is a stage model that describes the changes in thoughts, feelings, and actions of users as they engage in information seeking. It consists of six stages: initiation, selection, exploration, formulation, collection, and presentation. It also recognizes the uncertainty, anxiety, confidence, and satisfaction that users experience throughout the process. You can use Kuhlthau's model to design information systems or services that guide users through the stages of information seeking, and offer them feedback, support, and encouragement along the way.

4 Savolainen's Everyday Life Information Seeking Model

Savolainen's everyday life information seeking model is a contextual model that examines how people seek and use information in their everyday lives. It emphasizes the role of information in coping with practical problems and enhancing the quality of life. It distinguishes between two types of information seeking: problem-oriented and interest-oriented. It also considers the influences of socio-cultural factors, such as norms, values, and habits, on information behavior. You can use Savolainen's model to design information systems or services that address the everyday information needs and interests of users, and respect their socio-cultural backgrounds and preferences.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?