In previous contributions Fourie (2011a, b, c) sets the tone for the importance of
exploring the use of personal information management (PIM) and reference
management and the role of librarians, as well as the use of alerts and mind maps
in this regard. Although touching on the need for collaboration, it is now time to
explore collaboration and its complexities in more detail.
This contribution will focus on collaboration and PIM and reference management:
the features and support offered by software, the human component in collaborative
information seeking, work and learning, the pitfalls, and issues for research. For
purposes of convenience I will mostly refer only to PIM where PIM can include the use
of reference management software such as EndNote, RefWorks or Reference Manager,
and where there can be one or multiple databases at stake. The discussion is offered
against the ideal of PIM: