Crossing the divide: Putting information seeking research and theory into computer science practice to make information search systems and services more effective for the user

Abstract With Carol Kuhlthau as moderator, we propose a panel of six information behavior researchers with diverse views on operationalizing findings and theoretical positions in information behavior/information seeking research for application in information system design and for re‐envisioning library and information services for technological information environments. Whereas computer‐science designed information systems and technological environments in libraries are designed for the user with an answer or at least the form of the answer firmly in mind, information seeking research is interested in the user with a complex information need who utilizes an information system or library service for knowledge construction and sense‐making. The dilemma is how to communicate information behavior/information seeking research and objectives to those who design the systems. The panelists propose different views on and solutions.