Evaluation of Searching
Mae M. Clark · The Acquisitions Librarian · 1991
Bibliographic searching entails verification and searching. Which of these functions is considered primary depends on many local factors and varies with the perspective of the different departments which rely on the searching. Development of an effective and smoothly operating searching unit requires evaluation. Evaluation refers to identifying goals, translating these goals into measurable indicators of goal achievement, collecting data about these factors and finally comparing the data gathered with the goal criteria. The two basic methods in which searching can be evaluated, statistical compilation and analysis of procedures, are discussed. Methods of statistical evaluation such as counting, determination of unit costs, monitoring tasks and staff time, sampling, etc., as well as work flow analysis, are discussed, While no one method will give a complete representation of how well the searching unit functions, by using a combination of the evaluation tools outlined and some subjective evaluation obtained through discussions with other departments, it is possible to evaluate searching then identify and correct problems. Problems that can interfere with achieving the goals of the searching unit are discussed and methods for deiding with the problems are suggested.