Introduction to information quality

Abstract

This chapter introduces the information quality (InfoQ) framework taking a structural approach, heretofore missing in the literature and education curricula. We introduce the InfoQ concept, its components and dimensions, and a formal definition. We then illustrate the InfoQ components by comparing several types of studies in the field of online auctions. Overall, the book covers a wide range of application domains and a variety of InfoQ considerations in the design and evaluation of empirical quantitative studies. Readers with different interests will find many and varied examples in the book, illustrating how InfoQ can apply to specific contexts. We show how to use InfoQ to improve the study design, how to enhance InfoQ after the data has been collected, how to evaluate a study with the InfoQ dimensions and how InfoQ can be used to discuss position papers and studies referring to data analysis. As mentioned, this chapter offers a general introduction and sets the stage for part I. Specific examples with InfoQ applications are included in part II.