Toward an Integrated Approach to Information Management: A Literature Review

In this literature review, the author examines the scholarly literature of Information Management (IM) and related fields in the recognition that information has long been an important asset for any organization. However, nowadays the work environment in organizations is more complicated due to the information overload that employees experience on a daily basis. The information deluge requires employees’ swift attention, analysis, and action within a limited time. In response, Information Management aids organizations manage information and realize its potential. This literature review reveals that scholars have given various interpretations to the term according to the perspective (organizational, library, and personal) under which Information Management is examined. Additionally, the term is often used interchangeably with other terms such as knowledge management, data management, content management, etc. Within this multidisciplinary framework, the author presents various definitions of the meaning of Information Management, including a synthesis working concept, to guide her doctoral studies. Paper conclusions recommend an integrated approach to information management which combines the organizational and the library perspective of Information Management, as advanced by Detlor. This proposal emerges out of recognition that a library is a dynamic, living information and knowledge creation organization. Fulfillment of this potential requires that information processes are integrated in librarians’ daily work life in order to contribute to organizational learning. This paper could serve as a starting point for an exploratory research study on an integrated approach for Information Management that can contribute to organizational learning in library organizations.