Abstract

A description and presentation of the universal components of information seeking and retrieval systems including query system, search results page, and record (metadata) model. Bibliographic information systems as an environment for bibliographic retrieval systems is considered. The main trends in the recent evolution of user interfaces in the case of academic databases are discussed.

Abstract

Key features of the financial system as an information system which links markets’ stakeholders are highlighted and discussed. These features are related to the 2008 subprime crisis, and they are contextualized in sociotechnical changes at the end of the 20th century. Ways to improve the system and prevent future crisis are briefly explored, taking into account information behaviours, which differ from mainstream economics.

Abstract

In conceptualizing information systems always there have been a dilemma between two options: either use them as mere automation tool over the existing situation, or convert it in an enhancer element, i.e. a radical transformation facilitator. A historical example is examined and future trends in line to illustrate the possibilities of an enhancing choice are suggested.

Abstract

Open source software is a key component in the technological development of Central and South American nations. In many cases, it is the only option that avoids the problems of the “digital divide”. Strengthening the use of open source software in public administration and academic communities is a necessary step toward being able to offer quality information services to citizens. A number of interesting initiatives are highlighted in Central and South America, where free software is contributing to numerous projects that offer interesting learning opportunities.

Abstract

Since the (re)appearance of ontologies in the late nineties, there is a debate about the relationship between thesauri and ontologies. This article presents a synthesis of this debate, focusing on the use of these tools in the information systems area, which is the best one to compare both technologies, utilizing the concept of document description semantics.

Abstract

Based on our assertion that current record preservation systems are not feasible in the long term for reasons of scale and cost, we explore the current technological environment where records are created, paying special attention to phenomena such as distributed systems, cloud computing and web 2.0. In two future articles 1) we will explore the social environment where this creation is performed, with special attention to the lack of interest in memory and accountability, and 2) we will suggest a potential scenario for recordkeeping that archivists will have to address at the short term.

Abstract

Public administration in the developed countries is designing information initiatives to manage risk information using web-based systems. These sites are intended to deliver information to citizens, but also have valuable information for experts and authorities. Five web sites are compared and a simple methodology is provided to extract conclusions and propose recommendations in an information management dimension that is key to saving not only property but human lives as well.

Abstract

Uneix, the information system that integrates the management data of twelve Catalonian universities, is described. It tracks needs, resources and results in numerous categories: faculty, staff, programs of study, students, job market for recent graduates, costs, etc. The system is based on three design elements: cooperation, data reliability (with strict quality control), and wealth of information that fits the needs of many user types.

Abstract

Content management systems (CMS) let us automate the generation, management, and retrieval of digital information, giving us the ability to deliver the right content to the right people at the right time at the right cost. This article analyzes the concept of CMS, its evolution from the 1970s to the open source tools developed since 2000, and its relationship to other systems, such as document management, records management or enterprise content management. Finally, a set of basic functions is detailed, along with practical advice to help determine the best CMS to meet the specific needs of any particular information service.

Abstract

The lack of a well defined model of information representation on the web has produced several problems related to processing information. In an effort to resolve these problems, the W3C has proposed the semantic web project. This new scenario offers both possibilities and difficulties for the future. Special attention is given to ontologies, fundamental tools for the representation of knowledge on the semantic web. Finally, the role of library and information professionals is considered in this new context.