Managing Information for Research

A book for first-time researchers which addresses the problems and anxieties they themselves define as most important:* Transforming the knowledge gained during research into written form* Managing time* Organizing the information they collect and create* Transforming information from written sources into usable knowledge* Coping with feelings of isolation and loss of confidenceStrangely enough, these problems have not so far been the main focus of any text designed to help researchers.This book makes up for the omission: it is based on experience - the experience of the author in working with students who are tackling research for the first time, and that of students themselves - and it presents the experience by way of examples from real projects. Readers have the opportunity of answering questions about their own research, and on the basis of their answers they are helped in making decisions that will help them to cope successfully with the key problems, and to deliver an end product that does justice to their efforts.

The Authors

Elizabeth Orna is an independent information consultant, working in partnership with a typographic designer. She is also a visiting teacher in higher education institutions in the UK, Australia and the USA.

Graham Stevens is a typographic designer and in partnership with an information consultant. He held senior lecturing posts in higher education institutions in the UK, teaching typographic design and information design, and has retired as Head of Graphic Design at Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication, to concentrate on design and writing.

What are we doing when we 'do research'
Mapping the research territory
known and unknown areas
Managing information to support research
Keeping the record straight
documenting the research
Managing the time available
Planning the information products of research
questions to answer
Planning the information products of research
first decisions
Extending our repertoire for presenting information
Design is more than cosmetic!
The process of converting information into writing
making it easier