Turning weakness into strength: strategies for future LIS

Abstract

Purpose

LIS has been described as a fragmented field in crisis, with an increased competition from other fields; and lacking in development of theories. The purpose of this paper is to articulate a strategy in which the perceived weakness can be seen as a source of strength.

Design/methodology/approach

The text builds mostly on reflections on meta‐theoretical and science‐organisation literature. Ten distinct problems for the research field are identified and discussed in order to provide a viable strategy for the future.

Findings

While it is common to suggest a convergent movement toward the idealised characteristics of the strong research discipline as a recipe against fragmentation, a strong convergent movement is suggested that feeds off the fragmented character of the field. What is commonly perceived as a weakness, the multidimensional character of the field, can be translated into a strategic resource.

Originality/value

The paper provides a fresh perspective on the strategic situation of LIS.

Citation

Nolin, J. and Åström, F. (2010), "Turning weakness into strength: strategies for future LIS", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 66 No. 1, pp. 7-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/00220411011016344