Electronic current awareness service: a survival tool for the information age?

Information overload, and the importance/or information users of staying abreast of relevant information, has led to the development of current awareness services. Not only have advances in information technology and telecommunications led to an increased volume of information but they have also made it easier for agencies to produce competing electronic current awareness services. This paper will briefly define an effective electronic current awareness service and highlight some available products and services. It is important that the best products be selected for use by individuals and information services. Evaluation criteria for current awareness products will be identified in the light of specific user needs and requirements for a successful electronic current awareness service.