[Sigia-l] Information-centered Design

[Nuno Lopes]

Hi all,

Isn't it information more accessible then ever before?

Isn't it more accessible to the point where we starting to discuss its
relevance?

Isn't it more accessible to the point where we starting to discuss its
quality, both in terms of access and the actual information put
available?

Isn't it that sometimes we confuse then need for an all encompassing
accessibility architecture with consumerism, and consumerism with money?

The reason why some systems don't work is most of times due to failure
to prove themselves helpful to stakeholders and users. The dot-compost
heap was just a demonstration of this.

The problem is in orchestrating conflicting interests of the different
players and users, not to mention financial constraints and technology
advances, towards a vision that takes them into account in a coherent
framework. Unfortunately most visions don't. The ones that do, will for
sure succeed, the ones that don't, will not have a chance.

Leaving organizations outside of the equation and focus on information
for information accessibility sake like some people would like is just a
way to disaster IMHO. This does not mean that research and practice
towards understanding information systems and their interfaces are not
paramount to build better and more flexible artifacts, but leave the
market (users/people and organizations) decide "where they want to go
today", and keep your eyes open for forthcoming quantum leaps that are
often energized by external "strange attractors".

Sure in principle and if possible a overall encompassing information
architecture and accessibility framework would make the life of
information architects easier (not to mention a lot of work), but at
what cost for organizations, employees, and finely people in no
particular order?

Best regards,

Nuno Lopes