A behavioural model for information retrieval system design

A behavioural model derived from analysis of the informa tion-seeking patterns of academic social scientists is employed to provide recommendations for information retrieval system design. The six major characteristics identified in the informa tion-seeking patterns—starting, chaining, browsing, differenti ating, monitoring and extracting—are descnbed in relation to retrieval system facilities, and the possibility of implementing an experimental system in a hypertext environment is consid ered.