Information retrieval from a user perspective

The volume of information available to individuals in Western Society is ever-increasing. Developments in computing and communications have culminated in encouraging an increasing number of individuals to use information technology. Although this situation is generally viewed positively, there are many problems associated with unskilled and untrained novice computer users accessing the technology for their own specific information needs. In addition, the increasing amount of information that is becoming available on computers is making retrieval difficult for all types of user. This paper addresses some of these information retrieval problems in relation to the user interface mediating between the user and the information and considers a number of possible solutions