[Apologies for cross posting]
Notice of Publication

Lynne R Conniss, A Julie Ashford and Margaret E Graham
Information seeking behaviour in image retrieval: VISOR I final report. 
Newcastle-upon-Tyne: Institute for Image Data Research, 2000. 147pp.
(Library and Information Commission Research Report 95).
ISBN 1 86135 051 1; £25.00
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This major report represents the findings of the VISOR (Visual Information
Seeking Oriented Research) project, which was funded jointly by IIDR and
Resource (CMAL/RE/031) in the period 1998-2000. The aim of the project was
to investigate the information seeking behaviour of image users in specific
disciplines or domains, in order to increase our understanding of how and
why people search for and use visual information. The specific objectives
were to:
1.  study and analyse the needs, characteristics, and actions of end users
of visual information, particularly in the electronic environment.
2.  develop models of information seeking behaviour in the field of image
retrieval, through contextual studies of people in the workplace.
3.  influence the design of future image retrieval systems so that digital
collections of images can be exploited to their full potential.

The report includes a literature review covering information behaviour; a
description of the qualitative methodology adopted and data collection
techniques used; the findings divided into five sections - Participant
profiles, Classes of image use, Classes of image search, Contextual
framework, & Image seeking process; and conclusions and recommendations.

The Image seeking process is influenced by the complex interaction between
the contextual factors, contributing to the way in which a user searches and
ultimately selects and uses images. All findings are drawn together to
present a generalised, holistic, representation of the process of searching
for images which consists of six phases: starting, scoping, applying,
selecting, iterating and ending. 

VISOR I has highlighted key topics relating to image seeking behaviour and
retrieval which require further investigation.
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Copies are available from: Institute for Image Data Research, University of
Northumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST.  Fax: +44 (191) 227 4637; Email:
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Margaret Graham
Research & Development Manager
Institute for Image Data Research
University of Northumbria at Newcastle
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 8ST

Tel: +44 (0) 191 227 4646
Fax: +44 (0) 191 227 4637
http://www.unn.ac.uk/iidr/ <http://www.unn.ac.uk/iidr/>