The DELOS : Digital Library Reference Model as a basis for describing and evaluating search systems
Abstract
In this thesis I have studied the DELOS Digital Library Reference Model (DLRM) in detail,
with the aim to evaluate its suitability as a description profile for search systems, - the
ultimate purpose being to apply such descriptions as a basis for comparison and evaluation of
search systems.
Two different approaches has been taken to evaluate DLRM. Firstly, a description profile –
DLRM Vocabulary – has been derived from the original DLRM (as represented in Protegé)
and applied to describe the end-user-accessible functionality in Web of Knowledge, WorldCat
Local at State Library of Ohio and Europeana. Secondly, an analytical evaluation of the
DLRM Vocabulary as a modeling language has been performed according to an existing
quality framework for modeling languages.
The main conclusion is that DLRM Vocabulary does have potential as a description profile
for digital libraries. No major inconsistencies or conflicts in DLRM Vocabulary are
discovered, and the analytical evaluation indicated that it is fairly comprehensible, at least for
audience with some knowledge on enterprise modeling. The main problem with using it in
its present state is lack of specificity in some areas, causing construct overload or construct
deficit.
Description
Master i bibliotek- og informasjonsvitenskap