The Information Cycle as a Framework for Defining Information Goals for Water-Quality Monitoring

Abstract

/ The necessity to tailor information becomes increasingly urgent as the information revolution continues to generate ever-increasing flows of data and so-called information. From European experiences, a new approach for monitoring system design is suggested in this paper. In this approach, careful and detailed specification of information needs is a major contributing factor to the effectiveness of information products. To develop better specifications for information products, the process of collecting and transforming data into useful information requires careful thought and guidance. A dialogue between information users on one hand and information producers on the other is essential. This dialogue can be based on the information cycle, describing the continuous process from specifying information needs for water management and a strategy to collect information through data collection and data analysis up to utilization of information by water management. By following the respective steps in the information cycle, the process of information gathering can be completed. The cyclic character provides a quantitative means of connecting monitoring system design and operations with the information expectations and/or products required by management.

Using Cooperative Water Quality Data for a Holistic Understanding of Rivers and Streams: A Study of the Neponset River, Massachusetts

“…we are able not only to differentiate different segments of the streams using PCA but also to interpret many of these components in light of the dynamics of each system. Given that within the United States and other countries, water quality monitoring is increasingly falling to local groups, it is in the community's interest to engage with local organizations, maximize use of the data, and create useful "information" in the vein of Timmerman, Ottens, and Ward (2000). Within the Neponset watershed studied here, the results of the long-term monitoring have led to efforts to install "tree filters"-a simplified bioretention cell-to treat storm runoff at designated locations, based on the record of monitoring.…”

Developing an effective adaptive monitoring network to support integrated coastal management in a multiuser nature reserve

“…Information derived from monitoring may be used by managers to improve the performance of their strategies by evaluating the effectiveness of management actions and contributing to transparency and accountability for improving future planning (Pomeroy et al 2005, Pullin and Stewart 2006, Hockings et al 2008. The information cycle includes the identification of information needs, implementing of monitoring, i.e., data collection and proper data management, and subsequent assessment and reporting to inform decision makers, managers, and stakeholders involved in ICM (Timmerman et al 2000).…”

Monitoring Information Systems to Support Adaptive Water Management

“…The links between them represent the iterative process of monitoring design, which is at the basis of AMIS. The figure was elaborated starting from the information cycle developed by Timmerman et al (2000). This cycle depicts a framework where information users and producers communicate information needs that link the monitoring and decision processes.…”