To explain the information sources used for data and documentation
How this information is used
Verbal, written, and electronic information sources are the three basic categories into which data and documentation are typically divided.
Information received through spoken conversation is included in verbal sources, including:
Talks with coworkers or specialists
Stakeholder interviews
Talks and seminars
Conversations and gatherings
Calls on the phone
Written sources comprise data gleaned from tangible documents, like:
Books and articles
Reports and white papers
Manuals and instructions
Policies and procedures
Emails and letters
Electronic sources include information obtained from digital resources, such as:
Internet databases and webpages
Applications for software
Social media networks
Electronic mail and more online correspondence
Tools for collaboration and cloud-based storage
The particular kinds of information sources that are used will change based on the job or project that is being worked on. A software developer, for instance, would rely more on electronic sources like online code repositories and documentation, whereas a researcher might rely more on printed materials like books and scholarly publications.