Evaluating information products
Jinfo Report

24th November 2020

Abstract

The evaluation of products and information sources is a core activity for information professionals. It involves assessing current and future needs of users, whether any gaps are being addressed and ensuring value is being delivered to the organisation.

In a five-part series of articles, Jinfo looks at the steps involved in laying the foundations for a successful evaluation process, including the process for evaluating comparative products and sources, factors impacting product evaluation, and the value of following a set process. We also highlight a comprehensive comparative analysis of patent research projects conducted by the InfoCenter at Cargill as well as presenting activities and examples of best practice.

We look at:

• What needs to be done to lay the foundations for a successful evaluation process; including defining the business need and planning the project
  
  
• The methodology involved
  
  
• How to get participants involved and develop criteria for testing and documentation
  
  
• How to identify a list of products, how to create an initial review of products and user testing of the products and capturing data
  
  
• The outcome from the final evaluation stage of the project which involves aggregating and analysing data, and presenting recommendations and learning points.

By Steve Bynghall

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