Information systems and the stimulation of creativity

Abstract

The nature of scientific creativity from the point of view of information provision is discussed, and the contributions of current information systems assessed. The changes necessary to enable 'formal' library/information channels to play a fuller part in stimulating creativity are discussed. They include: representation of information for detection of analogies, pat terns and exceptions; interdisciplinary information, and the role of reviews; creation of an information-rich environment, including peripheral material; extension of browsing capabili ties, in both printed and computerized systems; direct involve ment of information users; serendipitous use of literature; individually oriented information access; integration of infor mation systems into formal creativity stimulation techniques. The implications of new information technology, particularly for the convergence of formal and informal communication channels, are considered. The necessity for research (theoretical and practical) on these topics is pointed out. A bibliography of 103 references attempts to draw together some of the scattered relevant literature. '