{"id":85,"date":"2018-07-02T10:04:25","date_gmt":"2018-07-02T10:04:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/lisp4.epgpbooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/?post_type=chapter&p=85"},"modified":"2018-07-30T09:07:26","modified_gmt":"2018-07-30T09:07:26","slug":"reviews-sources-state-of-the-art-reports-trend-etc","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/chapter\/reviews-sources-state-of-the-art-reports-trend-etc\/","title":{"rendered":"Reviews sources, State-of-the-Art Reports, Trend, etc"},"content":{"raw":" \r\n\r\nI.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Objectives<\/strong>\r\n
\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nThe module aims to\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Explain reviews as sources of information\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Highlight importance of State-of-the art reports, Trend reports\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To discuss the procedure to prepare reviews\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nII.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Learning Outcome<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nAfter learning this module the student will\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Understand the reviews as a kind of sources and services as well\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Identify different review journals and their use\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Know the details of information consolidation and repackaging\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Be able to prepare State of the art and Trend reports\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nIII.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Structure of Module<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Introduction\r\n\r\n2.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Reviews as Sources\r\n\r\n2.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Types of reviews\r\n\r\n2.1.1\u00a0 \u00a0 Book Reviews\r\n\r\n2.1.2\u00a0 \u00a0Review Journals\r\n\r\n2.1.3\u00a0 \u00a0Annual Reviews\r\n\r\n2.1.4\u00a0 \u00a0Advances \/ Recent advances series\r\n\r\n3.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Review Services\r\n\r\n3.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Evolution of the Concept\r\n\r\n3.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0The Terminology\r\n\r\n3.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Need for Review Services\r\n\r\n3.4\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Designing of Reports\r\n\r\n4.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0State- of-the- Art Reports\r\n\r\n4.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Characteristics of State- of-the- Art Reports\r\n\r\n4.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Types of State- of-the- Art Reports\r\n\r\n4.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Preparation of State-of-the-Art Report\r\n\r\n5.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Trend Reports\r\n\r\n5.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Need for Trend Reports\r\n\r\n5.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Features of a Trend Reports\r\n\r\n5.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Preparation of Trend Report\r\n\r\n6.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Summary\r\n\r\n7.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0References\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n
\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n1. <\/strong>Introduction<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

Information is recognized as a vital resource. Various users require scientific, technical, marketing, commercial, financial and related information for carrying out various activities. Besides this, there is too much information on a topic and the potential user is overloaded with the amount of available information. This involves too much time and effort on part of users and often leads to unwillingness to use information in available format. Besides this, information may be in a language, context and format outside the users\u2019 area of activity. These are some serious barriers which hamper effective use of information. An important solution to this problem is bibliographic organization, classification, indexing, abstracting and other related secondary information services. However, these mentioned above, do not address directly many of the critical barriers to information use. A solution to these problems, others solutions are required. The products of information consolidation, viz. reviews, state-of-the-art reports, trend reports and technical digests have been found to be the best possible solution in this regard.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

In this module, you will learn about reviews as information sources, the techniques of preparing reviews as products for serving the defined users, the importance of state-of-the-art reports and need for trend reports. Further, information products such as reviews, state-of-the-art reports, trend reports, digests, etc. are prepared as products of information service and they play a vital role in scientific, research and corporate organizations in retrieving the current developments in an encapsulated form. Such synthesized information products naturally increases the utility of information.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

2.\u00a0<\/strong>Reviews as Sources<\/strong><\/p>\r\n \r\n

Reviews are another important information source and are classified as secondary sources as they are prepared extracting the information from primary sources. You might know about book reviews wherein the comprehensive information is compressed to give a brief summary of the totality of ideas. Another related term in literary circles is \u2018peer review\u2019 that refers to the evaluation of academic\/scientific works by others working in the same field for publication in journals.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

However, from LIS point of view, the reviews are the literary works in condensed form that provide overview of the current progress of a subject by gathering related information from primary sources. They are compiled after retrieving and integrating data\/information from multiple information sources. Reviews basically assess the related concepts from articles, gather, summarize and present them in an abridged form that help the user to understand either the whole gamut of a subject or the recent advances in a subject or the growth trends of a subject area. Thus reviews are important as information sources as well as services.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Reviews provide a \u2018coherent picture of the development or progress of a subject\u2019 and present information in a \u2018more easily digestible form\u2019. According to Bimalendu Guha, \u201ca reviews \u00a0is actually a narrative account of progress of a particular field of study prepared by an expert in the field.\u201d S.R. Ranganathan referred to it as a narrative bibliography. Reviews, based on the primary literature, correlate the literature and provide a digest of knowledge. It may also appear as collection of articles at regular intervals (e.g., annual reviews) or may be in the form of review article in a periodical. Essentially, the reviews provide background information and link them to the current developments.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Online\u00a0 \u00a0Dictionary\u00a0 \u00a0of\u00a0\u00a0 LIS\u00a0\u00a0 defines\u00a0 \u00a0review\u00a0 \u00a0as\u00a0 \u00a0\u201cAn\u00a0\u00a0 evaluative\u00a0\u00a0 account\u00a0 \u00a0of\u00a0\u00a0 a\u00a0 \u00a0recent artist<\/span>ic performance or <\/span>exhibit, or of a newly <\/span>published literary or scholarly <\/span>work, usually written and <\/span>signed by a qualified person, for <\/span>publication in a <\/span>current newspaper, <\/span>magazine, or <\/span>journal. The account can be descriptive, reportorial, comparative, or <\/span>critical or serve as a vehicle for \u00a0a lengthy <\/span>essay in which the <\/span>reviewer discusses several recently <\/span>published works (<\/span>omnibus review) or a broader <\/span>topic for which the works reviewed serve as a springboard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

However, as an information source, review is a critical synthesis of the state of knowledge in a given subject or topic. It is also a critical examination of information and literature on a subject or topic accommodated in its broader format. Within the scope of various information consolidation products, reviews take a special and most significant place. They are the highest level of intellectual reprocessing of information. By \u2018review\u2019 it is meant, of course, the critical, evaluative review and not just a summary of who said, wrote or did what. The review here is also different from a book review which is an assessment of a document or publication. In other words, a bibliographic essay, an annotated bibliography or a fact report are not a review in the true sense of the word.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

A review thus sifts, evaluates and puts the significant contributions in condensed format eliminating irrelevant information. It also includes full bibliographical details to facilitate further reading, if necessary, by the user. It offers the users an expert view on the subject without any need to refer back the mass of primary literature. These are generally prepared by subject experts in the field and are not a work of library professionals or information officers. However, if the information officer is a subject expert he\/she is competent to do the job.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe basic characteristics of reviews are:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 analyses research studies about the same topic\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 analyses original documents or archival material\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 puts each contribution in perspective\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 indicates inter-relationship of ideas\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 indicates significance and possible areas of application\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 presents an integrated picture of development and progress\r\n\r\n \r\n

Reviews are the highest level of intellectual reprocessing of information. By \u2018review\u2019 it is meant, of course, the critical, evaluative review and not just a summary of who said, wrote or did what.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

One of the main activities before preparing a review is a selection of the subject or topic in which the review needs to be carried out. The subject or topic has to be clearly defined and the boundaries set, otherwise the act of reviewing becomes unmanageable. The review should be on a subject or topic for which there is a need for review, either because the literature and information has grown tremendously with many unconnected items or the users specifically require the same in the particular topic. Besides this, the review can be carried out only on a subject or a topic for which there is enough material to review, otherwise there is nothing to review.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Functions of reviews<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

According to A.M. Woodward, the reviews have two distinct functions, which are, historical and contemporary.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

i. Historical \u2013 that describes the development of a subject or a topic. For example, the peer evaluation of published literature; Collection of information from different sources; compaction of existing knowledge; etc.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

ii. Contemporary \u2013 those beneficial to individual users. For example, Information notification of published literature; Current awareness of related field; Back-up for other literature searching etc. Now reviews are available as online in general periodical databases.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Reviews can also be deliberately structured to emphasize some of the functions and encourage some of the uses.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe patterns of use of reviews for various individual functions may\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n2.1\u00a0 Types of reviews<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nReviews can be enumerative, evaluative or summarizing.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 enumerative\u2014listing with brief descriptions\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 evaluative\u2014judging worth of the publications included\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 summarizing\u2014providing a state-of-the-art summary (Wikipedia)\r\n\r\n \r\n

Reviews are categorized based on their subject coverage, frequency, material included, time and format. The LIS profession considers them as information sources based on their material scope like books, journals, etc.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nSome important review sources are briefly presented below:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n2.1.1 Book Reviews<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

These are the critical reviews of a recently published book. They primarily review books from major publishing houses.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nExamples of book reviews:\r\n\r\n \r\n

Kirkus Reviews (1833 - ), Kirkus mesia LLC: Kirkus \u00a0reviews is semimonthly review publication covering books for adults, young adults, and children. ISSN: 0042-6598. https:\/\/www.kirkusreviews.com\/<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Publisher's Weekly (1872 - ), PWxyz LLC: This is a weekly news magazine focused on the international book publishing business. It is targeted at publishers, booksellers, librarians, literary agents, authors and the media. It offers feature articles and news on all aspects of the book business,\u00a0bestsellers lists in a number of categories, and industry statistics, but its best known service is pre- publication book reviews, publishing some 8,000 per year. <\/span>http:\/\/www.publishersweekly.com\/<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

Book Review Digest (1905- ), H.W.Wilson & Co.: It provides excerpts from, and citations to, reviews of adult and juvenile fiction and non-fiction. It also includes descriptive summaries of the books. Virtually every book has at least one substantial review excerpt, and most have at least two. The print version is offered by Salem Press.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nBook Review Digest is available as databases with access support from EBSCO. It is available as\r\n\r\n \r\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Book Review Digest plus - includes reviews that are serious, academic works. The database has broad subject coverage and diverse range of review sources http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/academic\/book-review-digest-plus<\/p>\r\n \r\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Book Review Digest Retrospective (1903 \u2013 1982): This database provides excerpts from and citations to reviews <\/strong>of adult and juvenile fiction and non-fiction, representing decades of H.W. Wilson's Book Review\u00a0<\/strong>Digest.\u00a0http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/documents\/flyer\/public\/book-review-digest-retrospective<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nOnline book reviews<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

There are book review sites online that help the librarians and readers to be aware of the recent publications and also their worthiness.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

E.g. Booklist Online: More than 130,000 book reviews for librarians, book groups, and book lovers\u2014from the trusted experts at the American Library Association. http:\/\/www.booklistonline.com\/<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Online Review of Books and Current Affairs: Reviews books from small publishers, independent publishers and traditional publishers. http:\/\/www.onlinereviewofbooks.com<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nFurther online book shoppers like Amazon, Barnes and Noble et al facilitate customer reviews.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n2.1.2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review Journals<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

A scholarly journal devoted to the publication of articles providing analysis of trends in an academic field or summaries of the current state of research on topics of particular interest within the field (OADL).<\/p>\r\n \r\n

\u201cA review journal in academic publishing is an academic journal devoted to the review of progress in some particular area or topic during a preceding period often through the means of its publishing review articles.\u201d (Wikipedia)<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nAccording to Wikipedia, review journals can be divided by\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the frequency of publication\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the format\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the subject scope of the review\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the time period\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the type of review they provide<\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

These are usually separate journals publishing review articles or in many cases, the scholarly journals may carry review articles on regular or irregular basis. Their frequency is usually annual, quarterly, monthly or fortnightly.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n \r\n

Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature (1890- ), Reed Business Information, U.S.A.: It is a reference guide to recently published articles in periodical magazines and scholarly journals, organized by article subject. Readers' Guide to Periodical Literature delivers comprehensive indexing of 472 of the most popular and important periodicals published in the United States and Canada, thereby indexing articles about topics of current and historical interest. There are two online database versions of Reader's Guide available from H. W. Wilson Company: Readers' Guide to Periodical Literature <\/strong>which covers 1983 to the present, and Readers' Guide Retrospective: 1890-1982.\u00a0<\/strong>http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/academic\/readers-guide-to-periodical- literature.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Journal of Scientific Review (JSR)-an Open Access Journal (2009 - ), Science Review Board, An Open Access Publisher: It is an international interdisciplinary research journal on all aspects of science and technology. It provides a unique forum to place ideas, articles of general interest, research article, commentaries, book reviews, review articles, and anything of interest to the scientific community. Articles from different branches of science and technology are promptly made available to the wide range of readers after peer review. Being an open access journal, articles are freely available online. http:\/\/www.srbmag.org\/<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n2.1.3\u00a0\u00a0Annual Reviews<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

A serial publication that surveys the most important works \u00a0of \u00a0original research and \u00a0creative thought published in a specific discipline or sub discipline during a given \u00a0calendar year (example: Annual Review of Information Science and \u00a0Technology). \u00a0In \u00a0most academic libraries, annual reviews are placed on continuation order. (ODLIS)<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Annual Reviews (1932 - ), Annual Review: It is the non-profit publisher of a collection of more than 41 review series in specific disciplines in science and social science with five more to be introduced from the year 2014. Annual Reviews critically reviews the most significant primary research literature to guide researchers to the principal contributions of their field and help them keep up to date in their area of research. Each article is its own search engine, providing a gateway to the essential primary research literature referenced within each topic. Online Access is included with personal print subscriptions.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

\u201cEach review series contains 12 to 40 authoritative comprehensive review articles, covering the major journal articles on a specific topic during the preceding few years. The major topics in each subject are covered every few years, and special topics appear as appropriate.\u201d (Wikipedia) The\u00a0journals covered are with high impact factor. The series started in 1932 with Annual Review of Biochemistry. <\/span>http:\/\/www.annualreviews.org<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

Annual Review of Information Science and Technology (ARIST) (1966), American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIST) and Information Today: ARIST provides scholarly reviews of current topics in information science and technology. ARIST began in 1966 with the financial support of the National Science Foundation. Each annual issue covers current topics of the field and not confined to a single topic. The reviews are narrative as well as critical and present the contributor's opinion \u00a0concerning \u00a0activities, \u00a0developments, \u00a0and \u00a0trends \u00a0within the subject area reviewed.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n2.1.4 Advances \/ Recent Advances Series<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

These are the publications indicating the progress of a subject or a subfield based on its current research findings. These publications are usually in succession, either regular or irregular intervals, the issues being continuously numbered. The editors of each volume are usually experts of that particular field.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

The 'Recent Advances' series, 34 volumes, Royal Society of Medicine Press: The series provides timely reviews on current topics of interest in medical sciences.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Advances in Librarianship, 37 Volumes (1969 - ) Emerald: Each book provides information that is current and provides models and recommendations that can be applied by practitioners. The series provides an historical and permanent record of developments in the field of LIS for the last four decades.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

The Advances in Library and Information Science (ALIS) Book Series, 24 Volumes (2012 - ), IGI Global: The series aims to expand the body of library science literature by covering a wide range of topics affecting the profession and field at large. The series also seeks to provide readers with an essential resource for uncovering the latest research in library and information science management, development, and technologies. http:\/\/www.igi-global.com\/book-series\/advances-library- information-science<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review Services<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

The accelerated growth of information is a well recognized fact. The specialist reader finds large collection even in a narrow subject area. He wants selected, sieved and repackaged relevant information to save his time. Thus preparation of reviews became a part of library services. Documentation activity involves preparation of variety of reviews like state-of-the- art, trend, technical reviews, digest, subject analysis reports, etc. as their service products.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Information services aims to reach user community and cater their information needs and demands. However the user needs and demands vary as per the work they are associated with. You are aware of the different types of services from the previous modules. In this module, the review types of services are discussed. In traditional library system, the focus is on document access. However, in science and technology, the growth of information is vast and diversified and access to relevant subject content is primary than accessing document. This is evident in scientific, industrial and\u00a0corporate organizations. Therefore, presenting the synthesized tailor-made information to the information use pattern of the user community became practice in these organizations. As a result, reviews like the state-of-the\u2013art reports, trend reports, digests, market reports, etc. became a necessity and are developed as products to serve the users with customized information.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n3.1\u00a0 Evolution of the Concept<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

The information services like indexing, abstracting were developed to control the published primary literature. These are the bibliographical control tools to overcome the information explosion of the universe of knowledge. However, the volume of indexing and abstracting service is growing with the growth of primary literature. As a result, the specialist community finds it difficult to scan for information even from the highly compressed devices like indexes and abstracts. The reasons are:<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Proliferation of literature even in a narrow subject area\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scattering of related information in wide variety of publications.\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The available literature is not understandable because of multiplicity of languages\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The form of presentation is too technical, for e.g., chemical formulas\r\n\r\n \r\n

Therefore, users expect to have analyzed, synthesized, compressed\/consolidated and repackaged information capsules to make a quick understanding of the contents and apply the same at work. To resolve this difficulty, information analysis and consolidation centres emerged with subject experts as product developers. The consolidation type services are also made available in special libraries\/information centres\/technical information centres\/learning resource centres. The objective behind this is to customize the information to facilitate the same for its intense use.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

According to Kertsez, the process of evaluation of information and compilation was a practice of scientists of 19th century to control the flooding of information. The products were the handbooks, compilations, etc. However the term \u2018Information Analysis and Consolidation\u2019 is introduced by UNESCO General Information Programme (PGI). The aim is to improve information access and utility in developing countries through analysis and consolidation activities.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n3.2\u00a0 The Terminology<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

UNESCO sponsored three meetings (1975, 1978, and 1983) to discuss the issue and published documents that were prepared by Saracevic and Woods. These handbooks\/manuals provide clear definitions of the concept.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nSeracevic and Wood (1981) defined consolidation as:\r\n\r\n \r\n

\u201cCONSOLIDATED INFORMATION is a text(s) or message(s) purposefully structured from existing public knowledge to affect the private knowledge and decisions of individuals who otherwise may not be able to effectively and efficiently access or use this public knowledge from the original amounts or in the original structure and form.\u201d<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Seracevic and Wood (1986) observed that:\u00a0\"analysis comprised a wide range of functions, such as abstracting, indexing, translation, reviewing, consolidation, etc. However, a number of analysis centers do not always perform the consolidation function. It was also pointed out that information consolidation activities can be performed within institutions or systems other than information analysis centers, even by individuals or group of individuals.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

The purpose of consolidation is to provide the defined user community with new knowledge in concise form, and thus bring the accumulated knowledge within the reach of the users. The consolidation work is being done to bridge the gap between user and information.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

The information consolidation products are appropriate for a variety of users in various organizations (small, medium, large industries; local and state Governments; Mass urban and rural population; News media; Academic and research institutions) and relate to the five stages in the diffusion of innovations of ideas viz. awareness, interest\/knowledge, attitude formation, trial\/ decision, adoption\/confirmation. (Saracevic and Woods, 1981). More specifically they serve the information needs of \u2013<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scientists and researchers in academic and research institutions\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Engineers, Medical and other professions\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Policy \u00a0makers \u00a0decision \u00a0takers \u00a0and \u00a0executives \u00a0of \u00a0Government, \u00a0business \u00a0and \u00a0industrial organizations\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Technocrats and technicians of industry and corporate sector\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n3.3\u00a0 Need for Review Services<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

The existing information tools like bibliographies, union catalogues, indexing and abstracting services do not enable a scientist to make full use of information as they do provide only sources of information. Therefore, there was need to develop tools that include digesting, evaluating, condensing the scattered bits of information into coherent and comprehensible packages. Distilling the relevant bits of intellectual content from literature and presenting it in a repackaged form thus became a necessity.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

Reviews have a significant role in consolidating the totality of current information and providing an overview of the subject. The inferences made in integrative research reviews are as central to the validity of behavioral science knowledge as those made in primary research. Therefore, research reviewers must pay the same attention to rigorous methodology that is required of primary researchers. State- of-the \u2013art and trend reports are two types of products of reviews.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n3.4\u00a0 Designing of Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

A report generally embodies a review of its ideas in a particular subject published during a specific period. Hence a report is a systematized body of ideas, expressed in a manner easily digestible to user. Designing of report traditionally has to distinct steps \u2013 a) authorial or intellectual work, i.e., work consists the three planes \u2013 idea, verbal and structural; and b) physical production of the document. With the application of computer technologies, the distinction is a little blurred as production of electronic document is easier than a print one.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe work in idea plane includes perusing relevant information, selection and organizing the selected ideas.<\/span>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

The work in verbal includes expressing the ideas for the purpose of communication. The work in structural plane consists of formulation and use of notational system to preserve the sequence or structure of ideas.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

There are guiding principles to follow while preparing a report such as principles of helpful sequence, canons of context etc. the conscious use of the principles help the librarian in preparation of review reports of quality.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n4. State- of- the Art Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

The term \"state of the art\" refers to the highest level of general development, as of a device, technique, or scientific field achieved at a particular time.\u201d (Wikipedia). Saracevic and Woods explained the state-of-the art reports as follows:<\/p>\r\n \r\n

\u201cThese are type of reviews which do not have an all-encompassing scope and historical orientation. They emphasize recency and up-to-datedness. Their aim is to describe a very recent situation when they reach their audience. Thus, they are timelier than the traditional review, so they are mostly a current awareness tool. In order to achieve this currency, state-of-the-art reports are often published as informal reports, prepared on demand, oriented to a restricted audience, sold at high prices, and becoming obsolete quite fast.\u201d<\/p>\r\n \r\n

The state-of-the-art report is used mostly in relation to technological topics and in business and commerce.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nSome if the general features of a state-of-the-art reports should include:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\ni. Completeness \u2013 this is the degree to which the subject and literature on the subject are covered.\r\n\r\nii. Perspective - this involves the direction, purpose, subject orientation, the degree of appropriateness in relation to both a given subject and for a given user group.\r\n\r\niii. Analysis \u2013 with regard to thoroughness, depth and extent of analysis.\r\n\r\niv. Synthesis \u2013 this if the degree of compactness and consolidations from various collected sources of information.\r\n\r\nv. Value addition \u2013 related to the requirements of the users which in this case are the subject specialists.\r\n\r\nvi. Utility \u2013 the degree to which the state-of-the-art report serves multiple functions.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n4.1\u00a0 Characteristics of State-of-the-Art Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Relates to the interest\/knowledge stage of diffusion\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Used mostly in relation to technological topics and in business\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Summarize, compare and evaluate the current advances, characteristics and\/or utilizations of a given subject\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n4.2\u00a0 Types of State-of-the-Art Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nThe state-of-the-art reports are usually categorized based on the purpose they serve. Saracevic and Woods categorized them as:\r\n\r\n \r\n

i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0State-of-the-art -of a technology<\/strong>: these summarize, compare and evaluate the advances, characteristics and\/or utilizations of a given technology or technological product or process. They may focus on technical and engineering, use, management and strategic aspects. Thus they differ in accordance to the focus of an aspect.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

ii.\u00a0 \u00a0Market reports<\/strong>: these summarize a state of an industry or a market in terms of its existence, financial strength, economics, profitability, deployment, growth, characteristics, gaps, trends, potential, etc. Their focus may be on different uses and clientele. Market reports are useful in market planning and decision making.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

iii.\u00a0Statistical composites<\/strong>: these are statistical correlations in a wide variety of technical, market,\u00a0 demographic, scientific and other areas.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n4.3\u00a0 Preparation of State-of-the-Art Report<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

The principles governing the preparation of consolidation products are the guiding principles for state-of-the-art reports also. According to Seetharama, basically the process involves work in three planes \u2013 the idea, verbal and notational.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe work in idea plane involves:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\ni.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Initiation work \u2013<\/strong> recognition of the need for the product; initiation of work.\r\n\r\nii.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Scope determination \u2013<\/strong> determination of scope of the subject, audience, and type of product.\r\n\r\niii.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Collection of information \u2013<\/strong> this step involves:\r\n\r\n \r\n

a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 identification of information sources and selection of information from primary and secondary sources; and<\/p>\r\n

b.\u00a0\u00a0 Abstracting \u00a0the \u00a0collected \u00a0information \u00a0following \u00a0the \u00a0prescribed \u00a0guidelines \u00a0and criteria; present the abstract in an elegant form to facilitate its immediate utilization.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\niv.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Appraisal of information collected \u2013<\/strong> verifying the relevance of collected information and its value to the user.\r\n\r\nv.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Scope re-defined \u2013<\/strong> based on the collection, the subject scope may be redefined in consultation with subject experts.\r\n

vi.\u00a0 Preparation of draft text of the state-of-the art report \u2013<\/strong> document plan, arrangement of ideas following principles of helpful sequence, integration of information, sorting the information with the application of classification principles, and presentation of information following basic parameters and principles of technical writing.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

This step is vital in the process of preparation of the state-of-the-art report. Hence Sarasevic and Wood (1981) suggest that restructuring of information in the consolidation products should be in consonance with the communication practices of users on the one hand and on the other should reliably reflect the state of knowledge on the given subject. They have suggested the criteria to be followed for restructuring.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nvii.\u00a0 Testing of draft text \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>for assessing the quality and effectiveness of the state-of-the- are report it may be assessed by subject expert or may be field tested with the beneficiaries\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nviii.\u00a0 Finalization \u2013<\/strong> incorporating the suggestions from the feedback and finalizing the report with text and graphics.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\ni.\u00a0 UNICEF (1999). The State of Art Report on Fluoride in drinking water and resulting endemicity in India.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nii. IFLA. Information literacy state-of-the art report (2012). The series published from Columbia, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia, and United Kingdom. http:\/\/www.ifla.org\/publications\/information-literacy-state-of-the-art-reports<\/a>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\niii. Highway Research Board State-of-the-art reports. \u201cState-of-the art: Lime Soil Stabilization\r\n\r\n\u2013 2000\u201d HRB Special Report No 1 (2000 Rev).\r\n\r\nhttp:\/\/irc.org.in\/ENU\/Pages\/HighwayResearchBoard.aspx<\/a>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n5.\u00a0 Trend Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

A trend report is a very useful product of information analysis, consolidation and repackaging especially for the subject specialist. Its chief objective is to fulfill the specific subject requirements of the specialist users requiring information. Trend reports are also considered as a useful form of documentation service.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n

\u201cA trend report is an exposition of a subject, giving account of the general direction of reserch in the subject, based on an assessment of current development.\u201d (DRTC, 1971). In earlier times trend reports were prepared by subject specialists. Now LIS professionals developed necessary techniques in subject analysis and identifying the development and able to prepare trend reports. In the present electronic environment, especially the e-commerce, many organizations compile trend reports every season to stay competitive with the changing marketplace or industry. Though the principle is same, the trend reports prepared by information centres aims at their target group like scientists, executives, et al.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n5.1\u00a0 Need for Trend Reports<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

We are all aware that the present day users are facing problems of information explosion due to increase in number of available documents. It is also not possible to satisfy the users\u2019 requirements with the available documentation services that include indexing and abstracting services especially needs related to specific subject requirements of the specialist readers. A trend report thus is a tool which is designed to help the specialist reader by acquainting him\/her with the recent developments and research conducted in the particular subject. Besides this, with the help of trend reports, a specialist reader can utilize his time more effectively in research.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n5.2\u00a0 Features of a Trend Report<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Refers to analysis of changes in direction of a subject over a period\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Attempts to spot a pattern of growth of a subject\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Helps tp predict future developments of a subject\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n5.3\u00a0 Preparation of Trend Report<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

LIS professional being alien to the subject in which a trend report is being prepared needs to put in additional effort in addition to compilation techniques. Some of these are:<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Familiarity with different aspects of the subject\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Familiarity withusers\u2019 information requirements\r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Knowledge of helpful method of presentation of ideas in a technical report (DRTC, 1971)\r\n\r\n \r\n

The working Paper on trend reports in DRTC Seminar volume, 1971 dscribes the steps involved in the preparation of a trend report. Similar to the state-of-the-art reports the work in trend report can be demarcated into three planes, namely,\u00a0 idea, verbal and notational.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe work in idea plane involves<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

\u2022 The choice of the specific subject \u2013 to be done in consultation with the specialist for whom it is intended. At this stage the precision of the subject scope and time period have to be decided.<\/p>\r\n

\u2022 The collection of ideas from documents \u2013 selection of relevant documents especially from periodicals by scanning the articles, recording and ranking. The next step is to prepare an informative abstract for each selected article.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2022 Arrangement of ideas in helpful sequence \u2013 there can be several ways of arrangement but it should be based on its helpfulness to the user.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2022\u00a0 Integrating the information into an organized text \u2013 in the process of integration, perspective approach to subject, the core objective of a trend report, should be followed. The flow of ideas should be logical, step by step through structural elements of the text.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nThe work in verbal plane involves<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022\u00a0 Use of homonym free, synonym free terminology\r\n

\u2022 Expression of ideas \u2013 the language should be simple, precise, and transperant. As the standard of comprehension has to be done keeping in view the comprehension level of the user.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nThe work in notational plane involves<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

\u2022 Using an expressive notation for the representation ideas in accordance to hierarchical level. Generally arrangement of ideas is carried out in a sequence that is helpful to majority of users of the trend report.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n\u2022 Structuring the text by providing title page, contents page, informative abstract and an expressive index.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n1. IFLA Trend Report (2013). Open Access Scientific publishing and the developing world\r\n\r\nhttp:\/\/trends.ifla.org\/<\/a>.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n2. Science Watch. (2010). Science in India 2004-08. Science Watch \u2013 tracking trends and performance in research since 1989. Thomson Reuter http:\/\/sciencewatch.com\/articles\/science-india-2004-08<\/a>.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n3. Reserve Bank of India. (2013) Report on trends and progress of banking in India 2012-13.\r\n\r\nMumbai, RBI, 2013.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\n6. Summary<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

Due to overabundance of information in any given subject, users are facing information problems especially with regard to non-use of information. Besides this, there are also several barriers to effective use of information. For this, solutions have been offered by analysis, consolidation, condensation, evaluation, packaging and repackaging information. Some of the repackaged products of information consolidation, namely, the reviews, state-of-the-art reports and trend reports help to solve many problems of users.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

All the information sources discussed here have one thing in common, which is that they are directed towards fruitful use of information. To achieve these, they promote cooperation between subject specialists and information specialists. Most of these products have been directed towards specialists that is, scientists, engineers, medical professionals, educations, etc.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n7.\u00a0 References<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    \r\n \t
  1. Guha, B. Information and Documentation: \u00a0services, \u00a0techniques \u00a0and \u00a0systems. \u00a0Calcutta, World Press, 1983<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. D.R.T.C. Seminar on Reference Service (1971) Chapter BL: Trend Report. Bangalore, DRTC., ISI.<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Kertsz, F. (1983). Draft Guidelines for the Establishment of Information Analysis Centres and Information Consolidation Units. Paper presented at the third meeting of UNISIST Working Group on Information Analysis and Consolidation. Kuala Lumpur. 12-16 September, 1983.<\/li>\r\n \t
  4. Saracevic, Tefco and Wood, J. (1981). Consolidation of Information: A Handbook of Evaluation, Restructuring and Repackaging of Scientific and Technical Information. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-81\/WS\/16).<\/li>\r\n \t
  5. Saracevic, Tefco (1986). A Course in Information Consolidation: A Handbook for Education and Training in Analysis, Synthesis and Repackaging of Information. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-86\/WS\/14).<\/li>\r\n \t
  6. Seetharama, S. (1997). Information Consolidation and Repackaging- Framework, Methodology, Planning. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications<\/li>\r\n \t
  7. Woodward, Anthony M. The roles of reviews in information transfer. Journal -o-f the American Society for Information Science 28(3):175-180, May 1977. Quoted In <\/strong>Consolidation of Information: A Handbook of Evaluation, Restructuring and Repackaging of Scientific and Technical Information. Edited by Tefco Saracevic and J. Wood. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-81\/WS\/16).<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>","rendered":"

     <\/p>\n

    I.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    The module aims to<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Explain reviews as sources of information<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Highlight importance of State-of-the art reports, Trend reports<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To discuss the procedure to prepare reviews<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    II.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Learning Outcome<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    After learning this module the student will<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Understand the reviews as a kind of sources and services as well<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Identify different review journals and their use<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Know the details of information consolidation and repackaging<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Be able to prepare State of the art and Trend reports<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    III.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Structure of Module<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Introduction<\/p>\n

    2.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Reviews as Sources<\/p>\n

    2.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Types of reviews<\/p>\n

    2.1.1\u00a0 \u00a0 Book Reviews<\/p>\n

    2.1.2\u00a0 \u00a0Review Journals<\/p>\n

    2.1.3\u00a0 \u00a0Annual Reviews<\/p>\n

    2.1.4\u00a0 \u00a0Advances \/ Recent advances series<\/p>\n

    3.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Review Services<\/p>\n

    3.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Evolution of the Concept<\/p>\n

    3.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0The Terminology<\/p>\n

    3.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Need for Review Services<\/p>\n

    3.4\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Designing of Reports<\/p>\n

    4.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0State- of-the- Art Reports<\/p>\n

    4.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Characteristics of State- of-the- Art Reports<\/p>\n

    4.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Types of State- of-the- Art Reports<\/p>\n

    4.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Preparation of State-of-the-Art Report<\/p>\n

    5.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Trend Reports<\/p>\n

    5.1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Need for Trend Reports<\/p>\n

    5.2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Features of a Trend Reports<\/p>\n

    5.3\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Preparation of Trend Report<\/p>\n

    6.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Summary<\/p>\n

    7.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0References<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    1. <\/strong>Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Information is recognized as a vital resource. Various users require scientific, technical, marketing, commercial, financial and related information for carrying out various activities. Besides this, there is too much information on a topic and the potential user is overloaded with the amount of available information. This involves too much time and effort on part of users and often leads to unwillingness to use information in available format. Besides this, information may be in a language, context and format outside the users\u2019 area of activity. These are some serious barriers which hamper effective use of information. An important solution to this problem is bibliographic organization, classification, indexing, abstracting and other related secondary information services. However, these mentioned above, do not address directly many of the critical barriers to information use. A solution to these problems, others solutions are required. The products of information consolidation, viz. reviews, state-of-the-art reports, trend reports and technical digests have been found to be the best possible solution in this regard.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    In this module, you will learn about reviews as information sources, the techniques of preparing reviews as products for serving the defined users, the importance of state-of-the-art reports and need for trend reports. Further, information products such as reviews, state-of-the-art reports, trend reports, digests, etc. are prepared as products of information service and they play a vital role in scientific, research and corporate organizations in retrieving the current developments in an encapsulated form. Such synthesized information products naturally increases the utility of information.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.\u00a0<\/strong>Reviews as Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews are another important information source and are classified as secondary sources as they are prepared extracting the information from primary sources. You might know about book reviews wherein the comprehensive information is compressed to give a brief summary of the totality of ideas. Another related term in literary circles is \u2018peer review\u2019 that refers to the evaluation of academic\/scientific works by others working in the same field for publication in journals.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    However, from LIS point of view, the reviews are the literary works in condensed form that provide overview of the current progress of a subject by gathering related information from primary sources. They are compiled after retrieving and integrating data\/information from multiple information sources. Reviews basically assess the related concepts from articles, gather, summarize and present them in an abridged form that help the user to understand either the whole gamut of a subject or the recent advances in a subject or the growth trends of a subject area. Thus reviews are important as information sources as well as services.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews provide a \u2018coherent picture of the development or progress of a subject\u2019 and present information in a \u2018more easily digestible form\u2019. According to Bimalendu Guha, \u201ca reviews \u00a0is actually a narrative account of progress of a particular field of study prepared by an expert in the field.\u201d S.R. Ranganathan referred to it as a narrative bibliography. Reviews, based on the primary literature, correlate the literature and provide a digest of knowledge. It may also appear as collection of articles at regular intervals (e.g., annual reviews) or may be in the form of review article in a periodical. Essentially, the reviews provide background information and link them to the current developments.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Online\u00a0 \u00a0Dictionary\u00a0 \u00a0of\u00a0\u00a0 LIS\u00a0\u00a0 defines\u00a0 \u00a0review\u00a0 \u00a0as\u00a0 \u00a0\u201cAn\u00a0\u00a0 evaluative\u00a0\u00a0 account\u00a0 \u00a0of\u00a0\u00a0 a\u00a0 \u00a0recent artist<\/span>ic performance or <\/span>exhibit, or of a newly <\/span>published literary or scholarly <\/span>work, usually written and <\/span>signed by a qualified person, for <\/span>publication in a <\/span>current newspaper, <\/span>magazine, or <\/span>journal. The account can be descriptive, reportorial, comparative, or <\/span>critical or serve as a vehicle for \u00a0a lengthy <\/span>essay in which the <\/span>reviewer discusses several recently <\/span>published works (<\/span>omnibus review) or a broader <\/span>topic for which the works reviewed serve as a springboard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    However, as an information source, review is a critical synthesis of the state of knowledge in a given subject or topic. It is also a critical examination of information and literature on a subject or topic accommodated in its broader format. Within the scope of various information consolidation products, reviews take a special and most significant place. They are the highest level of intellectual reprocessing of information. By \u2018review\u2019 it is meant, of course, the critical, evaluative review and not just a summary of who said, wrote or did what. The review here is also different from a book review which is an assessment of a document or publication. In other words, a bibliographic essay, an annotated bibliography or a fact report are not a review in the true sense of the word.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    A review thus sifts, evaluates and puts the significant contributions in condensed format eliminating irrelevant information. It also includes full bibliographical details to facilitate further reading, if necessary, by the user. It offers the users an expert view on the subject without any need to refer back the mass of primary literature. These are generally prepared by subject experts in the field and are not a work of library professionals or information officers. However, if the information officer is a subject expert he\/she is competent to do the job.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The basic characteristics of reviews are:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 analyses research studies about the same topic<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 analyses original documents or archival material<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 puts each contribution in perspective<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 indicates inter-relationship of ideas<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 indicates significance and possible areas of application<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 presents an integrated picture of development and progress<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews are the highest level of intellectual reprocessing of information. By \u2018review\u2019 it is meant, of course, the critical, evaluative review and not just a summary of who said, wrote or did what.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    One of the main activities before preparing a review is a selection of the subject or topic in which the review needs to be carried out. The subject or topic has to be clearly defined and the boundaries set, otherwise the act of reviewing becomes unmanageable. The review should be on a subject or topic for which there is a need for review, either because the literature and information has grown tremendously with many unconnected items or the users specifically require the same in the particular topic. Besides this, the review can be carried out only on a subject or a topic for which there is enough material to review, otherwise there is nothing to review.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Functions of reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    According to A.M. Woodward, the reviews have two distinct functions, which are, historical and contemporary.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    i. Historical \u2013 that describes the development of a subject or a topic. For example, the peer evaluation of published literature; Collection of information from different sources; compaction of existing knowledge; etc.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    ii. Contemporary \u2013 those beneficial to individual users. For example, Information notification of published literature; Current awareness of related field; Back-up for other literature searching etc. Now reviews are available as online in general periodical databases.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews can also be deliberately structured to emphasize some of the functions and encourage some of the uses.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The patterns of use of reviews for various individual functions may<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.1\u00a0 Types of reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews can be enumerative, evaluative or summarizing.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 enumerative\u2014listing with brief descriptions<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 evaluative\u2014judging worth of the publications included<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 summarizing\u2014providing a state-of-the-art summary (Wikipedia)<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews are categorized based on their subject coverage, frequency, material included, time and format. The LIS profession considers them as information sources based on their material scope like books, journals, etc.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Some important review sources are briefly presented below:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.1.1 Book Reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    These are the critical reviews of a recently published book. They primarily review books from major publishing houses.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Examples of book reviews:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Kirkus Reviews (1833 – ), Kirkus mesia LLC: Kirkus \u00a0reviews is semimonthly review publication covering books for adults, young adults, and children. ISSN: 0042-6598. https:\/\/www.kirkusreviews.com\/<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Publisher’s Weekly (1872 – ), PWxyz LLC: This is a weekly news magazine focused on the international book publishing business. It is targeted at publishers, booksellers, librarians, literary agents, authors and the media. It offers feature articles and news on all aspects of the book business,\u00a0bestsellers lists in a number of categories, and industry statistics, but its best known service is pre- publication book reviews, publishing some 8,000 per year. <\/span>http:\/\/www.publishersweekly.com\/<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    Book Review Digest (1905- ), H.W.Wilson & Co.: It provides excerpts from, and citations to, reviews of adult and juvenile fiction and non-fiction. It also includes descriptive summaries of the books. Virtually every book has at least one substantial review excerpt, and most have at least two. The print version is offered by Salem Press.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Book Review Digest is available as databases with access support from EBSCO. It is available as<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Book Review Digest plus – includes reviews that are serious, academic works. The database has broad subject coverage and diverse range of review sources http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/academic\/book-review-digest-plus<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Book Review Digest Retrospective (1903 \u2013 1982): This database provides excerpts from and citations to reviews <\/strong>of adult and juvenile fiction and non-fiction, representing decades of H.W. Wilson’s Book Review\u00a0<\/strong>Digest.\u00a0http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/documents\/flyer\/public\/book-review-digest-retrospective<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Online book reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    There are book review sites online that help the librarians and readers to be aware of the recent publications and also their worthiness.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    E.g. Booklist Online: More than 130,000 book reviews for librarians, book groups, and book lovers\u2014from the trusted experts at the American Library Association. http:\/\/www.booklistonline.com\/<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Online Review of Books and Current Affairs: Reviews books from small publishers, independent publishers and traditional publishers. http:\/\/www.onlinereviewofbooks.com<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Further online book shoppers like Amazon, Barnes and Noble et al facilitate customer reviews.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.1.2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review Journals<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    A scholarly journal devoted to the publication of articles providing analysis of trends in an academic field or summaries of the current state of research on topics of particular interest within the field (OADL).<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u201cA review journal in academic publishing is an academic journal devoted to the review of progress in some particular area or topic during a preceding period often through the means of its publishing review articles.\u201d (Wikipedia)<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    According to Wikipedia, review journals can be divided by<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the frequency of publication<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the format<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the subject scope of the review<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the time period<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the type of review they provide<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    These are usually separate journals publishing review articles or in many cases, the scholarly journals may carry review articles on regular or irregular basis. Their frequency is usually annual, quarterly, monthly or fortnightly.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Examples:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reader’s Guide to Periodical Literature (1890- ), Reed Business Information, U.S.A.: It is a reference guide to recently published articles in periodical magazines and scholarly journals, organized by article subject. Readers’ Guide to Periodical Literature delivers comprehensive indexing of 472 of the most popular and important periodicals published in the United States and Canada, thereby indexing articles about topics of current and historical interest. There are two online database versions of Reader’s Guide available from H. W. Wilson Company: Readers’ Guide to Periodical Literature <\/strong>which covers 1983 to the present, and Readers’ Guide Retrospective: 1890-1982.\u00a0<\/strong>http:\/\/www.ebscohost.com\/academic\/readers-guide-to-periodical- literature.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Journal of Scientific Review (JSR)-an Open Access Journal (2009 – ), Science Review Board, An Open Access Publisher: It is an international interdisciplinary research journal on all aspects of science and technology. It provides a unique forum to place ideas, articles of general interest, research article, commentaries, book reviews, review articles, and anything of interest to the scientific community. Articles from different branches of science and technology are promptly made available to the wide range of readers after peer review. Being an open access journal, articles are freely available online. http:\/\/www.srbmag.org\/<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.1.3\u00a0\u00a0Annual Reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    A serial publication that surveys the most important works \u00a0of \u00a0original research and \u00a0creative thought published in a specific discipline or sub discipline during a given \u00a0calendar year (example: Annual Review of Information Science and \u00a0Technology). \u00a0In \u00a0most academic libraries, annual reviews are placed on continuation order. (ODLIS)<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Annual Reviews (1932 – ), Annual Review: It is the non-profit publisher of a collection of more than 41 review series in specific disciplines in science and social science with five more to be introduced from the year 2014. Annual Reviews critically reviews the most significant primary research literature to guide researchers to the principal contributions of their field and help them keep up to date in their area of research. Each article is its own search engine, providing a gateway to the essential primary research literature referenced within each topic. Online Access is included with personal print subscriptions.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u201cEach review series contains 12 to 40 authoritative comprehensive review articles, covering the major journal articles on a specific topic during the preceding few years. The major topics in each subject are covered every few years, and special topics appear as appropriate.\u201d (Wikipedia) The\u00a0journals covered are with high impact factor. The series started in 1932 with Annual Review of Biochemistry. <\/span>http:\/\/www.annualreviews.org<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    Annual Review of Information Science and Technology (ARIST) (1966), American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIST) and Information Today: ARIST provides scholarly reviews of current topics in information science and technology. ARIST began in 1966 with the financial support of the National Science Foundation. Each annual issue covers current topics of the field and not confined to a single topic. The reviews are narrative as well as critical and present the contributor’s opinion \u00a0concerning \u00a0activities, \u00a0developments, \u00a0and \u00a0trends \u00a0within the subject area reviewed.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2.1.4 Advances \/ Recent Advances Series<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    These are the publications indicating the progress of a subject or a subfield based on its current research findings. These publications are usually in succession, either regular or irregular intervals, the issues being continuously numbered. The editors of each volume are usually experts of that particular field.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The ‘Recent Advances’ series, 34 volumes, Royal Society of Medicine Press: The series provides timely reviews on current topics of interest in medical sciences.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Advances in Librarianship, 37 Volumes (1969 – ) Emerald: Each book provides information that is current and provides models and recommendations that can be applied by practitioners. The series provides an historical and permanent record of developments in the field of LIS for the last four decades.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The Advances in Library and Information Science (ALIS) Book Series, 24 Volumes (2012 – ), IGI Global: The series aims to expand the body of library science literature by covering a wide range of topics affecting the profession and field at large. The series also seeks to provide readers with an essential resource for uncovering the latest research in library and information science management, development, and technologies. http:\/\/www.igi-global.com\/book-series\/advances-library- information-science<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review Services<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The accelerated growth of information is a well recognized fact. The specialist reader finds large collection even in a narrow subject area. He wants selected, sieved and repackaged relevant information to save his time. Thus preparation of reviews became a part of library services. Documentation activity involves preparation of variety of reviews like state-of-the- art, trend, technical reviews, digest, subject analysis reports, etc. as their service products.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Information services aims to reach user community and cater their information needs and demands. However the user needs and demands vary as per the work they are associated with. You are aware of the different types of services from the previous modules. In this module, the review types of services are discussed. In traditional library system, the focus is on document access. However, in science and technology, the growth of information is vast and diversified and access to relevant subject content is primary than accessing document. This is evident in scientific, industrial and\u00a0corporate organizations. Therefore, presenting the synthesized tailor-made information to the information use pattern of the user community became practice in these organizations. As a result, reviews like the state-of-the\u2013art reports, trend reports, digests, market reports, etc. became a necessity and are developed as products to serve the users with customized information.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    3.1\u00a0 Evolution of the Concept<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The information services like indexing, abstracting were developed to control the published primary literature. These are the bibliographical control tools to overcome the information explosion of the universe of knowledge. However, the volume of indexing and abstracting service is growing with the growth of primary literature. As a result, the specialist community finds it difficult to scan for information even from the highly compressed devices like indexes and abstracts. The reasons are:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Proliferation of literature even in a narrow subject area<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scattering of related information in wide variety of publications.<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The available literature is not understandable because of multiplicity of languages<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The form of presentation is too technical, for e.g., chemical formulas<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Therefore, users expect to have analyzed, synthesized, compressed\/consolidated and repackaged information capsules to make a quick understanding of the contents and apply the same at work. To resolve this difficulty, information analysis and consolidation centres emerged with subject experts as product developers. The consolidation type services are also made available in special libraries\/information centres\/technical information centres\/learning resource centres. The objective behind this is to customize the information to facilitate the same for its intense use.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    According to Kertsez, the process of evaluation of information and compilation was a practice of scientists of 19th century to control the flooding of information. The products were the handbooks, compilations, etc. However the term \u2018Information Analysis and Consolidation\u2019 is introduced by UNESCO General Information Programme (PGI). The aim is to improve information access and utility in developing countries through analysis and consolidation activities.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    3.2\u00a0 The Terminology<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    UNESCO sponsored three meetings (1975, 1978, and 1983) to discuss the issue and published documents that were prepared by Saracevic and Woods. These handbooks\/manuals provide clear definitions of the concept.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Seracevic and Wood (1981) defined consolidation as:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u201cCONSOLIDATED INFORMATION is a text(s) or message(s) purposefully structured from existing public knowledge to affect the private knowledge and decisions of individuals who otherwise may not be able to effectively and efficiently access or use this public knowledge from the original amounts or in the original structure and form.\u201d<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Seracevic and Wood (1986) observed that:\u00a0“analysis comprised a wide range of functions, such as abstracting, indexing, translation, reviewing, consolidation, etc. However, a number of analysis centers do not always perform the consolidation function. It was also pointed out that information consolidation activities can be performed within institutions or systems other than information analysis centers, even by individuals or group of individuals.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    The purpose of consolidation is to provide the defined user community with new knowledge in concise form, and thus bring the accumulated knowledge within the reach of the users. The consolidation work is being done to bridge the gap between user and information.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The information consolidation products are appropriate for a variety of users in various organizations (small, medium, large industries; local and state Governments; Mass urban and rural population; News media; Academic and research institutions) and relate to the five stages in the diffusion of innovations of ideas viz. awareness, interest\/knowledge, attitude formation, trial\/ decision, adoption\/confirmation. (Saracevic and Woods, 1981). More specifically they serve the information needs of \u2013<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scientists and researchers in academic and research institutions<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Engineers, Medical and other professions<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Policy \u00a0makers \u00a0decision \u00a0takers \u00a0and \u00a0executives \u00a0of \u00a0Government, \u00a0business \u00a0and \u00a0industrial organizations<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Technocrats and technicians of industry and corporate sector<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    3.3\u00a0 Need for Review Services<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The existing information tools like bibliographies, union catalogues, indexing and abstracting services do not enable a scientist to make full use of information as they do provide only sources of information. Therefore, there was need to develop tools that include digesting, evaluating, condensing the scattered bits of information into coherent and comprehensible packages. Distilling the relevant bits of intellectual content from literature and presenting it in a repackaged form thus became a necessity.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Reviews have a significant role in consolidating the totality of current information and providing an overview of the subject. The inferences made in integrative research reviews are as central to the validity of behavioral science knowledge as those made in primary research. Therefore, research reviewers must pay the same attention to rigorous methodology that is required of primary researchers. State- of-the \u2013art and trend reports are two types of products of reviews.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    3.4\u00a0 Designing of Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    A report generally embodies a review of its ideas in a particular subject published during a specific period. Hence a report is a systematized body of ideas, expressed in a manner easily digestible to user. Designing of report traditionally has to distinct steps \u2013 a) authorial or intellectual work, i.e., work consists the three planes \u2013 idea, verbal and structural; and b) physical production of the document. With the application of computer technologies, the distinction is a little blurred as production of electronic document is easier than a print one.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in idea plane includes perusing relevant information, selection and organizing the selected ideas.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in verbal includes expressing the ideas for the purpose of communication. The work in structural plane consists of formulation and use of notational system to preserve the sequence or structure of ideas.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    There are guiding principles to follow while preparing a report such as principles of helpful sequence, canons of context etc. the conscious use of the principles help the librarian in preparation of review reports of quality.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    4. State- of- the Art Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The term “state of the art” refers to the highest level of general development, as of a device, technique, or scientific field achieved at a particular time.\u201d (Wikipedia). Saracevic and Woods explained the state-of-the art reports as follows:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u201cThese are type of reviews which do not have an all-encompassing scope and historical orientation. They emphasize recency and up-to-datedness. Their aim is to describe a very recent situation when they reach their audience. Thus, they are timelier than the traditional review, so they are mostly a current awareness tool. In order to achieve this currency, state-of-the-art reports are often published as informal reports, prepared on demand, oriented to a restricted audience, sold at high prices, and becoming obsolete quite fast.\u201d<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The state-of-the-art report is used mostly in relation to technological topics and in business and commerce.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Some if the general features of a state-of-the-art reports should include:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    i. Completeness \u2013 this is the degree to which the subject and literature on the subject are covered.<\/p>\n

    ii. Perspective – this involves the direction, purpose, subject orientation, the degree of appropriateness in relation to both a given subject and for a given user group.<\/p>\n

    iii. Analysis \u2013 with regard to thoroughness, depth and extent of analysis.<\/p>\n

    iv. Synthesis \u2013 this if the degree of compactness and consolidations from various collected sources of information.<\/p>\n

    v. Value addition \u2013 related to the requirements of the users which in this case are the subject specialists.<\/p>\n

    vi. Utility \u2013 the degree to which the state-of-the-art report serves multiple functions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    4.1\u00a0 Characteristics of State-of-the-Art Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Relates to the interest\/knowledge stage of diffusion<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Used mostly in relation to technological topics and in business<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Summarize, compare and evaluate the current advances, characteristics and\/or utilizations of a given subject<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    4.2\u00a0 Types of State-of-the-Art Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The state-of-the-art reports are usually categorized based on the purpose they serve. Saracevic and Woods categorized them as:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0State-of-the-art -of a technology<\/strong>: these summarize, compare and evaluate the advances, characteristics and\/or utilizations of a given technology or technological product or process. They may focus on technical and engineering, use, management and strategic aspects. Thus they differ in accordance to the focus of an aspect.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    ii.\u00a0 \u00a0Market reports<\/strong>: these summarize a state of an industry or a market in terms of its existence, financial strength, economics, profitability, deployment, growth, characteristics, gaps, trends, potential, etc. Their focus may be on different uses and clientele. Market reports are useful in market planning and decision making.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    iii.\u00a0Statistical composites<\/strong>: these are statistical correlations in a wide variety of technical, market,\u00a0 demographic, scientific and other areas.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    4.3\u00a0 Preparation of State-of-the-Art Report<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The principles governing the preparation of consolidation products are the guiding principles for state-of-the-art reports also. According to Seetharama, basically the process involves work in three planes \u2013 the idea, verbal and notational.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in idea plane involves:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    i.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Initiation work \u2013<\/strong> recognition of the need for the product; initiation of work.<\/p>\n

    ii.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Scope determination \u2013<\/strong> determination of scope of the subject, audience, and type of product.<\/p>\n

    iii.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Collection of information \u2013<\/strong> this step involves:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 identification of information sources and selection of information from primary and secondary sources; and<\/p>\n

    b.\u00a0\u00a0 Abstracting \u00a0the \u00a0collected \u00a0information \u00a0following \u00a0the \u00a0prescribed \u00a0guidelines \u00a0and criteria; present the abstract in an elegant form to facilitate its immediate utilization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    iv.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Appraisal of information collected \u2013<\/strong> verifying the relevance of collected information and its value to the user.<\/p>\n

    v.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Scope re-defined \u2013<\/strong> based on the collection, the subject scope may be redefined in consultation with subject experts.<\/p>\n

    vi.\u00a0 Preparation of draft text of the state-of-the art report \u2013<\/strong> document plan, arrangement of ideas following principles of helpful sequence, integration of information, sorting the information with the application of classification principles, and presentation of information following basic parameters and principles of technical writing.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    This step is vital in the process of preparation of the state-of-the-art report. Hence Sarasevic and Wood (1981) suggest that restructuring of information in the consolidation products should be in consonance with the communication practices of users on the one hand and on the other should reliably reflect the state of knowledge on the given subject. They have suggested the criteria to be followed for restructuring.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    vii.\u00a0 Testing of draft text \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>for assessing the quality and effectiveness of the state-of-the- are report it may be assessed by subject expert or may be field tested with the beneficiaries<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    viii.\u00a0 Finalization \u2013<\/strong> incorporating the suggestions from the feedback and finalizing the report with text and graphics.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Examples:<\/p>\n

    i.\u00a0 UNICEF (1999). The State of Art Report on Fluoride in drinking water and resulting endemicity in India.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    ii. IFLA. Information literacy state-of-the art report (2012). The series published from Columbia, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia, and United Kingdom. http:\/\/www.ifla.org\/publications\/information-literacy-state-of-the-art-reports<\/a><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    iii. Highway Research Board State-of-the-art reports. \u201cState-of-the art: Lime Soil Stabilization<\/p>\n

    \u2013 2000\u201d HRB Special Report No 1 (2000 Rev).<\/p>\n

    http:\/\/irc.org.in\/ENU\/Pages\/HighwayResearchBoard.aspx<\/a><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    5.\u00a0 Trend Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    A trend report is a very useful product of information analysis, consolidation and repackaging especially for the subject specialist. Its chief objective is to fulfill the specific subject requirements of the specialist users requiring information. Trend reports are also considered as a useful form of documentation service.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u201cA trend report is an exposition of a subject, giving account of the general direction of reserch in the subject, based on an assessment of current development.\u201d (DRTC, 1971). In earlier times trend reports were prepared by subject specialists. Now LIS professionals developed necessary techniques in subject analysis and identifying the development and able to prepare trend reports. In the present electronic environment, especially the e-commerce, many organizations compile trend reports every season to stay competitive with the changing marketplace or industry. Though the principle is same, the trend reports prepared by information centres aims at their target group like scientists, executives, et al.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    5.1\u00a0 Need for Trend Reports<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    We are all aware that the present day users are facing problems of information explosion due to increase in number of available documents. It is also not possible to satisfy the users\u2019 requirements with the available documentation services that include indexing and abstracting services especially needs related to specific subject requirements of the specialist readers. A trend report thus is a tool which is designed to help the specialist reader by acquainting him\/her with the recent developments and research conducted in the particular subject. Besides this, with the help of trend reports, a specialist reader can utilize his time more effectively in research.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    5.2\u00a0 Features of a Trend Report<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Refers to analysis of changes in direction of a subject over a period<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Attempts to spot a pattern of growth of a subject<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Helps tp predict future developments of a subject<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    5.3\u00a0 Preparation of Trend Report<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    LIS professional being alien to the subject in which a trend report is being prepared needs to put in additional effort in addition to compilation techniques. Some of these are:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Familiarity with different aspects of the subject<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Familiarity withusers\u2019 information requirements<\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Knowledge of helpful method of presentation of ideas in a technical report (DRTC, 1971)<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The working Paper on trend reports in DRTC Seminar volume, 1971 dscribes the steps involved in the preparation of a trend report. Similar to the state-of-the-art reports the work in trend report can be demarcated into three planes, namely,\u00a0 idea, verbal and notational.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in idea plane involves<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022 The choice of the specific subject \u2013 to be done in consultation with the specialist for whom it is intended. At this stage the precision of the subject scope and time period have to be decided.<\/p>\n

    \u2022 The collection of ideas from documents \u2013 selection of relevant documents especially from periodicals by scanning the articles, recording and ranking. The next step is to prepare an informative abstract for each selected article.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \u2022 Arrangement of ideas in helpful sequence \u2013 there can be several ways of arrangement but it should be based on its helpfulness to the user.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0 Integrating the information into an organized text \u2013 in the process of integration, perspective approach to subject, the core objective of a trend report, should be followed. The flow of ideas should be logical, step by step through structural elements of the text.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in verbal plane involves<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022\u00a0 Use of homonym free, synonym free terminology<\/p>\n

    \u2022 Expression of ideas \u2013 the language should be simple, precise, and transperant. As the standard of comprehension has to be done keeping in view the comprehension level of the user.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The work in notational plane involves<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022 Using an expressive notation for the representation ideas in accordance to hierarchical level. Generally arrangement of ideas is carried out in a sequence that is helpful to majority of users of the trend report.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u2022 Structuring the text by providing title page, contents page, informative abstract and an expressive index.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Examples:<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    1. IFLA Trend Report (2013). Open Access Scientific publishing and the developing world<\/p>\n

    http:\/\/trends.ifla.org\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    2. Science Watch. (2010). Science in India 2004-08. Science Watch \u2013 tracking trends and performance in research since 1989. Thomson Reuter http:\/\/sciencewatch.com\/articles\/science-india-2004-08<\/a>.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    3. Reserve Bank of India. (2013) Report on trends and progress of banking in India 2012-13.<\/p>\n

    Mumbai, RBI, 2013.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

     <\/p>\n

    6. Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Due to overabundance of information in any given subject, users are facing information problems especially with regard to non-use of information. Besides this, there are also several barriers to effective use of information. For this, solutions have been offered by analysis, consolidation, condensation, evaluation, packaging and repackaging information. Some of the repackaged products of information consolidation, namely, the reviews, state-of-the-art reports and trend reports help to solve many problems of users.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    All the information sources discussed here have one thing in common, which is that they are directed towards fruitful use of information. To achieve these, they promote cooperation between subject specialists and information specialists. Most of these products have been directed towards specialists that is, scientists, engineers, medical professionals, educations, etc.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    7.\u00a0 References<\/strong><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Guha, B. Information and Documentation: \u00a0services, \u00a0techniques \u00a0and \u00a0systems. \u00a0Calcutta, World Press, 1983<\/li>\n
    2. D.R.T.C. Seminar on Reference Service (1971) Chapter BL: Trend Report. Bangalore, DRTC., ISI.<\/li>\n
    3. Kertsz, F. (1983). Draft Guidelines for the Establishment of Information Analysis Centres and Information Consolidation Units. Paper presented at the third meeting of UNISIST Working Group on Information Analysis and Consolidation. Kuala Lumpur. 12-16 September, 1983.<\/li>\n
    4. Saracevic, Tefco and Wood, J. (1981). Consolidation of Information: A Handbook of Evaluation, Restructuring and Repackaging of Scientific and Technical Information. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-81\/WS\/16).<\/li>\n
    5. Saracevic, Tefco (1986). A Course in Information Consolidation: A Handbook for Education and Training in Analysis, Synthesis and Repackaging of Information. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-86\/WS\/14).<\/li>\n
    6. Seetharama, S. (1997). Information Consolidation and Repackaging- Framework, Methodology, Planning. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications<\/li>\n
    7. Woodward, Anthony M. The roles of reviews in information transfer. Journal -o-f the American Society for Information Science 28(3):175-180, May 1977. Quoted In <\/strong>Consolidation of Information: A Handbook of Evaluation, Restructuring and Repackaging of Scientific and Technical Information. Edited by Tefco Saracevic and J. Wood. Paris: UNESCO. (PGI-81\/WS\/16).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"menu_order":14,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":["prof-vara-lakshmi-rudrabhatla"],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[64],"license":[],"class_list":["post-85","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry","contributor-prof-vara-lakshmi-rudrabhatla"],"part":3,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/85","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/85\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":210,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/85\/revisions\/210"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/3"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/85\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=85"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=85"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=85"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/lisp4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=85"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}