The attributes of information as an asset, its measurement and role in enhancing organisational effectiveness

摘要

This paper reports early findings from a research study being conducted in the Department of Information Science and The Business School at Loughborough University. The Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB) is funding the research. This three-year project is due to conclude in December 2002. Information assets such as market and customer information and management information identified by the Hawley Committee in 1994, are reviewed and updated. Reviewing and updating information assets was conducted in January 2001 using a discussion forum with senior British information managers.A matrix of revised information assets is then developed and some attributes of information assets are identified from the information science literature. A scoring mechanism for attributes of information assets is proposed. Finally, an interview with the Finance Director of a large UK organisation is reported. This interview uses repertory grid analysis to identify the attributes of information assets considered significant by this individual. These attributes are then compared to the attributes of information as an asset identified from the information science literature.The latter show little relation to those identified by the Finance Director, an individual responsible for decision-making on information investment and budgeting in his organisation.