Perspectives to the classication of information interactions: The Cool and Belkin faceted classification scheme under scrutiny

The faceted classification system of information interactionsproposed by Cool and Belkin is discussed in the light of two casestudies. The two examples use the classification scheme as astructural research instrument in two different phases ofinvestigation: in framing the collection of data and in the analysisof already existing data. The discussion is focussed on usabilityand the issues related to the classification scheme. We concludethat the proposed scheme is a workable instrument for studyingcomplex information interactions with different kinds of researchdesigns. The either premisory or post-collection use of theclassification scheme was recognised to have effects on theclassification outcome. The principal issues of using the schemeseemed to relate to the frequent overlap of the facets and thetendency of the classifications to be highly dependent on theperspectives of the study.