Abstract
M.Bibl.
Information is increasingly recognised and managed as a resource. In any
organisation it contribute directly to the performance of all functions.
The purpose of this study was to use Burk and Horton's methodology to
conduct an information audit to an assurance enterprise to identify the
company's strategic information. This was to prove the importance of
information as a corporate resource for competitive advantage.
A literature study was undertaken as well as an overview of the method and
results of an information audit. The information audit was only done for the
library and the law administration department.
The literature study gave the necessary overview of the information audit
method, but the empirical investigation provided the value of the information.
Information was collected on three different forms. The first was the inventory
which was divided in three sections: sources, services and systems. The
second form was the file surrogate card, which contained all the information
of the law files. The third form was a questionnaire to establish the
information needs of the users as well as the availability of the information
they need to fulfil their tasks. The information flow was also monitored in the
company.
Although the "lnfoMap" -method of Burk and Horton was used, it was
discovered that this method had several shortcomings regarding the practical
application, such as the calculation of the monetary value of the information.
After an analysis of the research results it is evident from the shortcomings
and needs that have come to light regarding the management, objectives,
use, value and cost of information assets that it is necessary to formulates an
information policy and that the conclusion can be drawn that the information
audit provides meaningful data that can serve as the starting point for
developing a formal information management plan for this insurance
company.