Subject Access to Information

Drawing on the research of experts from the fields of computing and library science, this ground-breaking work will show you how to combine two very different approaches to classification to create more effective, user-friendly information-retrieval systems. A much-needed analysis of the intersection of information organization and technology, this interdisciplinary work encompasses both current and potential methods of organizing information by subject. It examines traditional approaches as they are used in the online environment and explores computer science approaches, such as ontologies and automated tools for subject information organization. Entries review the advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches, showcase their applications today, and project what those applications may be in the future. Content ranges from background on the importance of information organization in general to the importance of information organization by subject in particular. Traditional and modern knowledge-organization systems are covered, as are technological standards, selected topics in automated tools, and interdisciplinary research and cooperation. By tackling varied approaches, the work provides you with an appreciation of the tools—and an understanding of common aims. Provides an interdisciplinary overview of current and potential approaches to organizing information by subject Covers both pure computer science and pure library science topics in easy-to-understand language accessible to audiences from both disciplines Reviews technological standards for representation, storage, and retrieval of varied knowledge-organization systems and their constituent elements Suggests a collaborative approach that will reduce duplicate efforts and make it easier to find solutions to practical problems