A General Evaluation Model for An Information Storage and Retrieval System

Abstract

AbstractThe problem of choosing the best information storage and retrieval system involves a consideration of the operational characteristics of information storage and retrieval systems relative to information requirements. Using these considerations, evaluations can be based upon decision theoretical considerations. The lack of such a decision theoretical basis for the study of the operation of these systems makes it difficult to evolve a well‐defined approach even to the gathering of evidence upon which to base a choice of a particular system.The development of the parameters for a system evaluation model used in the selection of an information storage and retrieval system is considered here. The parameters used by the general evaluation model are the major operational characteristics of a system, and their costs are, related to the user's information storage and retrieval requirements. Each major function of an information storage and retrieval system that is considered in the general evaluation model is discussed. The evaluation of the operational characteristics of an information storage and retrieval system can come only after all aspects of a system have been considered and there is evidence on which to base a judgment. If any functional area is left out of the evaluation model, then the evaluation of a system cannot be completed.