Modelling the scholarly search process in online environments: the Find-Use Model

Purpose Google Scholar is increasingly being used to conduct scholarly information searches. Yet, the design and features of this tool can have a critical impact on the publications retrieved and subsequently cited, highlighting the need for models that can shed light on the scholarly search process. Existing information-seeking models, though, are often too abstract to capture the reality of how scientists engage with Google Scholar. Here, we develop the Find-Use Model, a process-oriented analytical framework designed to describe, classify and measure scholarly search behaviour in online environments. Design/methodology/approach The Find-Use Model was developed through a literature review on scholarly information-seeking and direct observation of Google Scholar in use. Following a Grounded Theory (GT) approach, a constant comparative analysis was applied to iteratively refine categories derived from both data and theory. The model comprises three stages (Open, Search, Close), 17 actions and seven contextual categories, capturing both system functionalities and user characteristics. Findings The model accounts for iterative, non-linear behaviours and explicitly links search actions (e.g. Build) to use actions (e.g. Get). Evaluated against recognised quality criteria, the model demonstrates strengths in accuracy, systematic organisation and explanatory capacity. Originality/value The Find-Use Model is a useful tool for future observational research that links information search processes with scholarly visibility and impact. Its application opens new avenues to assess and enhance the ways in which researchers discover and use scholarly information.