Expert networks, a new priority for information managers
Jinfo Blog

By Anja Chemnitz Thygesen

Abstract

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Expert networks connect organisations with specialists for short paid consultations, providing rapid access to expertise where published sources are insufficient.

The model has moved from static databases to on-demand recruitment, making it essential for information managers to oversee their use carefully.

In the Jinfo blog "Why expert networks are a new priority for information managers", Stephen explains why information managers should be managing these networks.

In addition, he explains his main points in our Youtube video "The case for information managers managing expert-network vendors".

Expert networks are expanding across industries, but growth brings rising costs, compliance risks, and an increasing number of suppliers.

This became clear during a community call about expert networks. The findings from this call is summarised in the Jinfo report "Stepping up to manage expert networks".

Some of the learnings were that without proper management, organisations face:

• Fragmented contracts and duplication
• Unclear pricing structures that disguise the true cost per interview
• Fraud risks, including false experts or AI generated content
• Loss of intellectual property if transcripts or recordings remain with vendors.
  
  

The role of information managers

Information managers are best-placed to bring structure, governance, and cost control. They should guide colleagues on when to use expert networks, how to request interviews, and how to manage billing, recording, and compliance.

The Jinfo report "Enabling and managing expert networks" highlights the need for clear responsibilities, including:

• Oversight of spending and contracts
• Dashboards to track vendor performance
• Transparent agreements to avoid hidden charges
• Prevention of contract duplication
• Benchmarking and competition between suppliers.
  
  

Platform to support management

The Jinfo report "Product review of Inex One", summarises the findings from reviewing Inex One and discussions with their CEO, Max Friberg

A Jinfo webinar provides a product demo, and an interview with Max, including details of the story behind Inex One, and how they are working with vendors.

In essence, Inex One simplifies the process by bringing access to around thirty networks into one place.

It also offers transparent pricing per call, streamlined workflows for sourcing and billing, built-in compliance features, and AI-generated transcripts that create reusable knowledge archives.

Next steps

As next steps to manage expert networks, Jinfo recommends that information managers:

1. Audit spend and contracts across the organisation
2. Consolidate to one contract per vendor and negotiate clear terms
3. Create performance dashboards and share results with suppliers
4. Retain ownership of interview content and build an internal knowledge base
5. Educate users on correct processes and potential risks
6. Consider platforms like Inex One for greater efficiency and oversight.

Jinfo resources on this topic:

• "Why expert networks are a new priority for information managers" (Blog)
• "The case for information managers managing expert-network vendors" (YouTube)
• "Stepping up to manage expert networks" (Report)
• "Enabling and managing expert networks" (Report)
• "Product review of Inex One" (Report)
• "A look at Inex One with Max Friberg" (Webinar)

As always, we welcome your feedback on our resources, through the Jinfo contact page.

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