Back to basics of informing: The INIS principle

Abstract

The term "information" pervades both the mundane and technical vocabularies to the extent that it resembles an infomantra. It is argued in this article that despite the wide spread of this infoman-tra, the term "information" does not communicate well to the client of informing since the in-former uses it arbitrarily and without regard for the effects of informing. Conceptual in character, this argument is complemented by evidence from (1) evaluating user interface of Websites and (2) analyzing academic articles. A reified concept of information and an informer bias are identi-fied in both domains as the antecedents to infomantra. In self-defense, the subjugated client may seek shelter of the INIS principle (It's not information, stupid!). However, opportunities for es-cape are also identified in Website design and in possibilities of deeper theorizing of information.