Contextual information

Definition

Information that helps the reader to understand, to recognize value, relevance, constraints and trustworthiness of other information, particularly if that information is highly complex and specialized

Description

Contextual information helps the reader to answer questions such as ‘why should I believe this information?’, ‘what value can I attribute to this information?’ and ‘can I use this information to create new knowledge?’ As an example, the International Council on Archives (ICA) has published guidance on the management of contextual information in the field of safety of radioactive waste disposal facilities [1].

References

[1] INTERNATION COUNCIL ON ARCHIVES, Radioactive Waste Information: Meeting Our Obligations to Future Generations with Regard to Safety of Waste Disposal Facilities, ICA Study 18, ICA, Paris (2006).