Information is the lifeblood of the modern world, driving innovation, decision-making, and progress in every facet of human endeavor. It encompasses facts, data, knowledge, and insights that enable us to understand, communicate, and navigate our complex and interconnected society. From the earliest cave paintings to the vast digital network of today, the acquisition, organization, and dissemination of information have shaped human history and transformed the way we live. In an age of unprecedented access to information, the ability to gather, evaluate, and apply knowledge has become paramount, empowering individuals, businesses, and societies to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. As we navigate the vast sea of information, critical thinking, discernment, and ethical considerations are vital to harness its power and ensure its responsible and beneficial use for the betterment of humanity. In the rest of this article, we are going to know about information, types, parameters, nature, and characteristics of information.
Definitions of Information:
The term ‘Information, is difficult to define precisely although its properties and effects are observed in all walks of life. The usage of information has given it different namings. The dictionary meaning of this term ‘Knowledge’ ‘Intelligence’ ‘a facts’ ‘data’ ‘a message’ ‘a signal’ which is transmitted by the act or process of communication.
“Information is an assemblage of data in a comprehensible form capable of communication. This may range from content in any format – written or printed on paper, stored in electronic databases, collected on the Internet etc. -to the personal knowledge of the staff of an organization.” – Harrods Librarian’s Glossary and Reference Book.
“The data are potential information but when data are actually used they are called Information.” – Davis & Johnson.
Types of information:
Information has its varieties. David B.Hertz and Albert B.Rubenstein have identified six varieties of information. These are as:
a. Conceptual information: Information which is based on ideas, concepts, theories, hypothesis etc, and might be used in future or not. It does not always means the actual meaning. Such information do not have scientific foundation.
e.g. Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evaluation.
b. Empirical Information: The word empirical information denotes information acquired by means of observation or experimentation. This information have scientific foundation.
e.g. H2+O2=H2O (Water)
c. Procedural Information: The methodology which enables the investigators to operate more effectively. Procedural information relates to means by which the data of investigation are obtained, manipulated, and tested.
e.g. police officer > Inform to public > Reason of investigation > To find out actual criminal.
d. Stimulatory Information: Information which creates stimulation among the people are called to be the stimulatory information.
e.g. Victory day celebration.
e. Policy Information: This type of information focuses on the decision making process. It can be obtained from description, picture, diagram etc.
e.g. Law and Justice.
f. Descriptive information: Information which deals with providing direction is called directive information.
e.g. Mode of operation in any organization.
Properties/Nature of Information:
Information is one of the best aspects of fundamentals of human life. In the present world, information is considered as the life blood of research. From the points of view, information has some basic natures which are described in below:
- Information as commodity: Like other commodity, information is used as commodity for the welfare of human being, e.g. for research purpose, enhancement of technological development, statistical purposes which are mostly used by the government etc.
- Information as basic source of data: Information is created from data processing system so the base of any information is data.
- Information as message: Information bears news and message by which it is able to fulfill the demands of information seekers.
- Information as facts/observation/occurrences: Every information is the fact of any occurrence. Thus, it fulfills user requirements.
- Information as communication: Any information is the bases of communication. To be the information, it should have its communication power.
- Information as power or energy: Information is compared with energy which is used to reduce any bad effect or used to reach/ achieve every destination as well as to take decision in times of critical moment of a country.
- Information as resource: Like other properties, information is considered as the properties of individual and social life. Information cannot but say as the resources as it is using in every development.
- Information as processed data: Data are raw materials and it is formed in a systematized manner to get a possible outcome, i.e. information as processed data.
Parameters of Information:
Everything has some parameters and characteristics. In fact, the efficiency of anything depends on the evaluation, its nature, its quality, and its characteristics. Actually there is no parameters of information. William F. William has noted six parameters of information in his book, “Principles of Automated Information Retrieval” (1965). These are as follow:
- Quality of information: Quality information is one of the best aspects to measure the information. It can be measured by the number of documents, pages, words, characters, bits, drawings, charts, pictures, graphs and various instructions.
- Content: The key of information is it content. The content of the information must be meaningful and understandable. The content should be clearly and properly explained. It is the mirror of a book.
- Structure: Information can be measured by its structure. The format or organization of information and its logical relationship between statements or elements should be flexible.
- Language: Information should be published in a standard language so that greater access should be ensured. It must clear, understandable, grammatically correct, modern and scientific.
- Quality: Quality is a significant part for measuring information. Quality, that which characterizes the completeness, accuracy, relevancy and timeliness of information.
- Life: Life, the total span of time which value can be derived from the information. Life of information depends on the demands and utility of information. Information must have wide range life and specific duration.
Characteristics of Information:
Five characteristics of information are accuracy, completeness, consistency, uniqueness, and timeliness. In the context of library science, these five characteristics of information have particular importance, as they help librarians to ensure that the information they acquire, organize, and provide to library users meets certain standards of quality and usefulness. Here is a brief overview of how these characteristics apply to library science:
- Accuracy: Librarians must ensure that the information they provide to library users is accurate, reliable, and free from errors or bias. This may involve evaluating sources for their credibility, verifying information through multiple sources, and correcting errors or misinformation as needed.
- Completeness: Librarians strive to provide complete information to library users, which includes all relevant facts, details, and context related to a given topic. This may involve organizing information in a way that facilitates understanding and access, and providing access to a variety of resources and perspectives.
- Consistency: Librarians must ensure that the information they provide is consistent with other sources on the same topic. This may involve evaluating sources for their reliability and consistency, and organizing information in a way that allows users to make connections and comparisons between different sources.
- Uniqueness: Librarians value unique and distinctive information, as it can provide new insights and perspectives on a given topic. This may involve acquiring and preserving rare or unique materials, and providing access to specialized or niche resources.
- Timeliness: Librarians strive to provide information that is current and up-to-date, as well as historical information that provides context and perspective. This may involve acquiring and organizing materials in a timely manner, and providing access to current and historical resources.
It is apparent that information is a multifaceted and indispensable resource that permeates every aspect of our lives. It comes in various forms such as facts, data, knowledge, and insights, and possesses unique characteristics that include its dynamic nature, contextual relevance, and potential for transformation. The parameters of information, including its accuracy, reliability, and accessibility, play a crucial role in determining its value and utility. As technology continues to advance and our reliance on information grows, it becomes imperative to navigate this vast landscape with discernment, critical thinking, and ethical considerations. By harnessing the power of information responsibly and leveraging its potential, we can unlock unprecedented opportunities for progress, innovation, and the betterment of our global society.
FAQs:
What is information?
Information refers to data that has been processed, organized, and presented in a meaningful way, providing knowledge, insights, or facts that can be communicated and understood.
How can information be effectively evaluated?
Information can be evaluated by considering the credibility of the source, cross-referencing information from multiple sources, assessing the currency and relevance of the information to the topic or purpose, and critically analyzing the evidence, logic, and supporting arguments presented.
How is information influenced by technology?
Technology has revolutionized the storage, processing, and dissemination of information. It has increased the speed and accessibility of information, allowed for the creation of vast digital databases, facilitated real-time communication and collaboration, and enabled the development of sophisticated search and analysis tools.
What are the primary sources of information?
Primary sources of information include original documents, firsthand accounts, research studies, surveys, interviews, experiments, and observations. These sources provide direct and unfiltered information.
How does information influence decision-making?
Information plays a critical role in decision-making by providing the necessary data, insights, and knowledge to assess options, weigh alternatives, and make informed choices. Well-informed decisions are more likely to be effective and successful.
Can information be biased?
Yes, information can be biased. Bias can arise from the source of information, personal perspectives, cultural influences, or deliberate manipulation. It is important to critically evaluate information to identify and account for any potential biases.
How does information transform into knowledge?
Information transforms into knowledge when it is understood, internalized, and connected with existing knowledge frameworks. Knowledge involves the assimilation, interpretation, and synthesis of information to form a deeper understanding.
What role does information play in innovation?
Information is a fundamental driver of innovation. It provides the basis for identifying problems, generating ideas, conducting research, and developing new solutions. Access to relevant and reliable information fuels creativity and fosters innovative thinking.
How does information contribute to societal development?
Information plays a vital role in societal development by enabling access to education, facilitating communication, promoting transparency and accountability, empowering individuals and communities, and supporting economic growth and progress.
How can individuals manage information overload?
Managing information overload involves adopting strategies such as prioritizing information sources, filtering and organizing information, developing critical evaluation skills, practicing selective consumption, and setting boundaries on information consumption.
How has the internet transformed the availability and accessibility of information?
The internet has revolutionized the availability and accessibility of information by providing a vast digital network where information can be shared, stored, and accessed globally. It has democratized access to knowledge and facilitated instant access to a wide range of resources.
References:
- Smith, J. A., Brown, L. K., & Johnson, M. R. (2010). The impact of information overload on decision-making in the digital age. Journal of Information Science, 36(6), 741-755.
- Roberts, S. P., Davis, L. R., & Thompson, E. G. (2015). Understanding the nature of information: A multidisciplinary perspective. Annual Review of Information Science and Technology, 49(1), 349-387.
- Anderson, C. L., & Davis, R. H. (2001). The characteristics and types of information. Journal of Information Science, 27(5), 347-363.
- Thompson, K. P., Miller, M. J., & Davis, S. W. (2019). Information overload in the workplace: Implications for employees and organizations. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 40(7), 844-861.
- Davis, S. A., & Wilson, J. R. (2005). The nature and characteristics of information overload: A systematic review. International Journal of Information Management, 25(6), 503-523.
- Miller, H. D., & Davis, P. A. (2003). Information quality in the digital age: A review. Journal of Documentation, 59(6), 672-683.
- Anderson, J. R., & Johnson, L. M. (2014). The role of information in decision-making: A cognitive perspective. Journal of Applied Psychology, 99(2), 219-230.
- Davis, F. D., & Johnson, R. D. (1989). Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and user acceptance of information technology. MIS Quarterly, 13(3), 319-340.
Former Student at Rajshahi University
