Abstract

An overview is given of the profession of Information and Documentation in 2011. The economic crisis was the main factor that determined professional development and the labour market. Some of the key reports that have been outlined in social networks and blogs are also described.

Abstract

Librarians and information scientists must seek collaboration with other professionals, not only –as until now– with the computer scientists, but also with teaching experts. In this sense they must talk less about information and communication technologies (ICT) and more about learning and knowledge technologies (LKT). Libraries (school, public, university) do not centralize the information flows anymore, so their work must now be more oriented to user education and training.

Abstract

A picture is presented of the state of library and information professionals and disciplines in Spain. Statistical data are provided about both the number and type of Spanish libraries and archives as well as practising professionals according to geographic distribution, training and job description. Spanish library and information authorities are identified as well as professional associations and learned societies and conferences held. University education is examined describing existing institutions, degree levels and providing data on student enrollment and teachers.

Abstract

The electronic management of documents and records is facing major challenges: the integration of document processes and checks in routine work processes; risk analysis; techniques and controls needed to manage records and digital evidence controls (metadata, digital signature, authenticity, integrity, preservation); and access restrictions for citizenship or customers. Information professionals are invited to take an active role in resolving these complex problems.

Abstract

To some degree the Open Access Initiative has failed, because too few people, even in the library profession, know of its existence. More marketing should be done, thus making more people aware of it. MARC became obsolete and has to be superseded by xml-based standards. With the advent of Google, people don’t have any problems finding information. Instead they have problems knowing what to do with once they acquire it. A next generation library catalog should allow people to first find items in a library collection, and then to use the information in some way. Public libraries are devoted to their community. If they focus too much on books, then their future is less positive. If they think in terms of data, information, and knowledge, their future is only as limited as their imagination.

Abstract

The current landscape on indicators is characterized by its great activity with new data sources emerging and new indicators being proposed. However, national evaluation processes in Spain and Latin America are characterized by the use of indicators and criteria defined by a conservative view of science becoming ever more updated and with a narrow vision of the scientific activity. In this text we reflect on this paradox and we put forward ideas on how we could work from the bibliometric community, both academic and professional, to connect these two worlds, new indicators and evaluation processes, that are so related and increasingly distant.

Abstract

This article presents the results of a survey of 215 organizational communication professionals in Uruguay. It describes in a comparative way the roles and tasks of professionals working in different types of organization versus those who work as consultants or service providers in organizational communication. In particular, the factors that affect the evaluation of the provision of services from the perspective of clients and consultants are studied. In addition, the functions of organizational communication and the perception of their results are examined. It is concluded that the professional career, the type of organization, and the sex of the professional affect the type of role and professional tasks. There are differences in the perception that clients and consultants have about their relationship. The predominance of external organizational communication functions weakens the results achieved in internal communication.

Abstract

The gestation and consolidation of feminist activism that has brought together thousands of communication professionals in Spain, following the strike called on March 8, 2018 are analyzed. United through the Telegram messaging application and through the hashtag #lasperiodistasparamos on Twitter, a speech analysis of the 13,163 tweets published with this label, from February to September 2018, has been carried out. The content of the conversations on their Telegram channel has also been analyzed as well as the opinions formulated in in-depth interviews with 20 activists of this cyber community. Through a quantitative and qualitative methodology applied to categories extracted in the speeches, the causes of this activism, the effectiveness of its channels of organization and communication and the initiatives derived in the urban space have been observed. In conclusion, this pioneering awareness of union between Spanish communication professionals has been motivated by the crisis of capitalism and by a new global, technological and intergenerational feminist wave. This activism has managed for the first time to cover feminism from the mass media and has added to the protest women of different ages, ideologies and professions. In addition, it has resulted in the constitution of various organizations and associations of journalism professionals, smaller networks with the ability to decide and act for feminism within the urban space in regional areas. Especially they work for deontological awareness for the gender perspective in journalistic production.

Abstract

The evolution from a public space such as the one defined throughout the twentieth century –characterised by unidirectionality and political and media intermediation– towards a digital scenario –with multiple actors and multi-directional messages– has not resolved the problems that existed beforehand, and has also generated others. This public space crisis has been aggravated by the fragmentation of audiences, often absorbed into their own echo chamber, and by the dispersion and jumble of voices that are an impediment to any possibility of unravelling the terms of public debate. Faced with enormous challenges such as disinformation, the conventional media, who have traditionally held the responsibility of providing quality information, address these issues from a position of extreme vulnerability, due to the disintegration of the former economic model and social credibility. In a context of uncertainty, crisis, and fragmented public spheres, and there being no alternatives that can guarantee distinct dialogue, the initiation of a social debate that prioritises quality of information is essential.