Information needs and behaviours in developing countries: A perspective of Ranganathans Pmest categorization

Abstract

The information needs of people in the developing regions are for work-related activities, leisure, consumption, and daily survival. This paper aims to provide an understanding of the information needs and behaviours of people in developing regions. The paper further presents a highlight of concept of developing countries; analogy of the framework of the Ranganathan's categorization of human knowledge (PMEST); analysis of the theory in relation to information needs and behaviours; Ranganathan and Facet Analysis. It also explores some general parameters influencing information-seeking behaviour of types or groups of individuals in developing countries. Some of the information-seeking behaviours include passive quests for information and heavy reliance on opinion leaders, rumours, and oral sources. This is due to low literacy levels and ignorance about other sources. People generally have not adopted the habit of utilizing information resources such as libraries and information centres in their work, life, and study. Descriptive survey research designed was employed using documentary research which represents secondary sources of data collection. Methodology involves critical scrutinization and examination of existing data using qualitative descriptive analysis.