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A proposed structure for displayed information to minimize search time through a data base

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  • David A. Thompson
  • Lawrence A. Bennigson
  • David Whitman

Abstract

Minimum user search time is selected as a relative measure of efficiency for evaluation of data base classification structures. For two common structures with similar characteristics, a “table of contents” format and a “decision tree” format, a visual search time formula is derived. The optimal shape for a data base classification structure is shown to be narrow: three to five information items to be selected at each successive level of the structure, with as many levels as necessary for the data base size. This shape is compared with those of classification structures commonly in use and, based on search time parameters developed, recommendations for librarians and other information classifiers are made.

Suggested Citation

  • David A. Thompson & Lawrence A. Bennigson & David Whitman, 1968. "A proposed structure for displayed information to minimize search time through a data base," American Documentation, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 19(1), pages 80-84, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:amedoc:v:19:y:1968:i:1:p:80-84
    DOI: 10.1002/asi.5090190114
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