A conceptual model for user-centered quality information retrieval on the World Wide Web

Information retrieval from the Internet is becoming a commonplace phenomenon. Users and consumers are browsing websites and seeking various kinds of information for personal use. Retrieving quality information from the Internet can be challenging even for the computer-savvy. There are several search engines, even some personalized, to help users search for information on the Internet. In spite of all the claims about search engines, users still have difficult time retrieving relevant information quickly. This paper proposes a general conceptual model for user-centered quality information retrieval (UCQIR) from the Internet. The UCQIR conceptual model is presented in an architectural form. The UCQIR architectural model uses the concept of "Task-performer" to present various aspects of an information retrieval system at the knowledge level. Task-performer is an abstract construct used to conceptualize the idea of an entity that is competent in doing its tasks. The UCQIR architectural model can be used to easily design and develop domain-specific, user-centered quality information retrieval systems. The proposed UCQIR conceptual model is unique and comprehensive. The use of the conceptual model is illustrated through a design of a patient-centered quality medical information retrieval for the medical domain. We also present an experimental evaluation of a UCQIR prototype based upon real user experiences. The experimental results are very positive.