Elizabeth Orna is unlikely to need an introduction to readers of Library Management since she has authored a number of texts in the field of information management and information strategy, and lectures on these topics in a number of countries. Her success results from a deep understanding of the subject, an ability to write clearly which is coupled with the careful attention given to the design of her books. This produces clarity in the texts that result in easy assimilation for the reader, a pleasure to read. Would that this were to be so for the products of all publishers in the ILS field. In this instance it therefore represents a good example of the ideal information product that she is describing.
Making Knowledge Visible: Communicating Knowledge through Information Products integrates the fields of information management, knowledge management and information technology. As Clive Holtham points out in his foreword it is reflective and considers the way in which information technology can overlook the fundamental reason for its implementation, which is to exploit information and knowledge for business advantage.
The text is divided into four parts. The first introduces the subject, provides definitions, stresses the importance of the topic, and describes how the text is organised. So often authors forget to provide a guide that provides insight into the mind of the writer and the way in which they approach the subject matter. The central thesis is identified – that no business can function without information products and why they should be part of the overall information strategy.
Part 2 discusses information products in their organisational context, focussing on the business of the organisation, the value that information products can add – or subtract – together with the stakeholders and their interests.
The third part considers support for information products covering knowledge and information management, together with the infrastructure in terms of information systems and technology. There is also a valuable section on information design and the reconciliation of conflicting needs that those working in the field will understand.
The final part considers the action to be taken to gain maximum value from the information products, which includes information auditing.
Liz acknowledges the contribution of a number people who helped with the preparation of case studies and provided many examples to illustrate the points made. They represent a range of different organisations and roles in the information sector. The text also has added value by the inclusion of many excellent diagrams. In this way she melds theory with practice. It is good to see that the citations pay tribute to people such as B.C. Brookes. (One of the problems that has resulted from the development of online databases for journals and abstracting services is that few publishers have attempted retrospective conversion which means that many of the writings of the great thinkers are not easily accessible to today's students and researchers.)
In a final paragraph she writes of outcomes? Yes with a question mark emphasising that she would “dislike greatly to find ‘Information Products’ becoming a new buzz word … and of energetic take‐over bids from quarters that see opportunities for self‐advancement and profit there”. Instead she would like to see practical application, and the stakeholders – information managers, systems professionals and information designers – working together in new alliances. Amen to that.
Who should buy and read it? It will provide a clear and thoughtful introduction for students studying in any sector of the information profession. Practitioners, even those with many years experience, again in any of the information sectors will find it stimulating – whether they are working in the private or public organisations. Managers of information services should put a copy in their staff library and consider giving one to those who have the responsibility for allocating resources to the service. They might well appreciate it.
It is good value for money – an excellent addition to anyone's library.
