collaborative information retrieval (cir)
Most information retrieval and management tools have been developed for use by individuals. For example, Web search interfaces, and online catalogs support individual searchers working on their own. In workplace and library settings, however, teamwork is becoming more and more prevalent. We use the term Collaborative Information Retrieval (CIR) to describe any activity that collectively resolves an information problem. Information retrieval is construed in the broadest sense and includes processes such as: problem identification, analysis of information needs, query formulation, retrieval interactions, and the presentation and analysis of results. In this SIG, we will explore how to better understand and support information access in collaborative team settings. An understanding of the social and organizational contexts in which CIR occurs will lead to the design of more useful systems.Several researchers have addressed aspects of CIR. In previous CHI meetings, Kidd (CHI'94) described how different people make different sense of the same information, Maltz and Ehrlich (CHI'95) outlined the key role that information gate keepers play, and several groups studied collaborative filtering. Some products support workgroup scheduling, document workflow, etc. But, none has brought together the variety of perspectives we believe are critical in fully understanding the CIR design space.
collaboration information retrieval workgroup ir cscw