Without an understanding of information behaviour, and the organisational processes, information systems may not meet the needs of the organisation or the individuals (staff and customers) who use the systems. Information behaviour encompasses how individuals express, or don'r express possible information needs, the way they use information, their habitual information sources, the setting in which they use the information, and the role of the user (at work, in the home or with friends). The module will encourage appraisal of the research evidence on user behaviour, and the theoretical frameworks and models of information behaviour. Unit 1 deals with the information needs of managers, and the way managers use informal and formal information in their role. Unit 2 focuses on studies of health professionals and other professionals. Unit 3 discusses the development of the informed consumer. Unit 4 examines the theory and methodology of information user studies. Unit 5 introduces the systems approaches to understanding information flows among people and groups. Unit 6 explains how surveys to assess information needs should be designed, and demonstrates some techniques (such as rich picture, use case diagrams and business process modelling) that could be used to map processes and information flows.

The module covers a variety of techniques that may be used throughout the planning and implementation of new information systems. New information systems often upset current ways of working and therefore considerable emphasis is placed in the module on the techniques that analysts and users can use to help in planning for a new information system, analysing the current data and information flows and business processes so that discussion of system and process improvements can be productive. Students will compare various methodologies ? `recipes? ? for systems analysis and project management to help understand why systems failures occur, how they can be avoided, and how projects can be managed better, from planning through procurement and implementation to evaluation of the completed project and realisation of benefits.

No Brief Description

No Brief Description

For information on this module please click the link below.